Copacabana

Leigh Mauze Armstrong

In the history of the John Ross Palmer Escapist Mentorship Program, I've never once fact-checked an individual's application.  If they stated that they had this degree or that award, I always took them for their word and presented their written applications to the jury panelists "as is."  Well, something different happened this year.  In reviewing the application of Leigh Mauze Armstrong for completedness (ok, I admit, sometimes I read a little bit more because I'm just so curious...), I noticed that she stated that she had received an early acceptance to the Art Institute of Chicago and had been awarded an eighty thousand dollar merit scholarship.  Oh, wait a minute, I forgot to tell you, Leigh is 18 and a senior in high school (making her the youngest Escapist Artist in the history of this program).  My head spun when I read those words and I told John, "I mean, I'm going to have to check this out!"  So, I e-mailed Leigh, gave her a big Congratulations on the award, but also told her that it was my annual job to fact-check on applications (remember I told you I've never done this before...) and if she would kindly fax me a copy of her acceptance and award letter that would be much appreciated.  Leigh responded that it would be no problem whatsoever and I should receive the fax on Monday morning.  Well, first thing on Monday morning, I got the fax.  Sure enough, her massive accomplishment was right there in black and white.  Amazing.

In tabulating the scores and seeing that Leigh was in fact a Finalist, I did think for a minute that this decision might stem some controversy.  I mean, some of the artists that have applied and were not accepted for this program in the past have decades of experience as a professional artist.  But, then I just read, and re-read, this one essay response from Leigh.  She had framed it in the form of a direct letter to John--so genius.  Then I decided and validated in my mind--no matter how 'controversial' this might be, I didn't care in the slighest.  As in one jury panelist's comments to the judging, "She gets it."

How can the Escapist Mentorship Program benefit you?

"Dear John,

I want to remind you who I am -- the girl who came to your open house and was very shy about my work.  You kindly gifted me with your time and a wonderful book about the Escapist movement.  It was a 'moment' and I am grateful.

The Escapist Mentorship Program would allow me to work with an artist who has the experience, passion and knowledge I need to make art my career and lifestyle.  My days are currently lived in high school.  Many don't understand the desire inside of me and the amount of courage it takes to paint and create and hope to one day call it my life's work.  Your love of sharing your art, your attitute, your vision -- all that I saw when I met you sealed the deal for me.  I must follow my dream.  I must.  And this mentorship would be a wonderful place to start.

After watching the videos of the past mentorship programs, I can't help but feel intimated because of the age difference between me and the past participants.  I am only eighteen.  I don't have a lot of experience.  But each year I have grown so much in my work that there is no saying where I could go if I had this opportunity.

So please choose me -- I can promise you that no one will get more of this than I will.  You will never regret your decision.

Sincerely,

Leigh"

It just gives me chills.  Leigh, honestly, I think I am intimidated by you.  You not only are a world-class artist but you have a gift with words that I admire tremendously. John and I want to give you a huge Congratulations and we cannot wait to help you as much as humanly possible this year!

                                 
                                                                     Untitled
                                                            Artist: Leigh Armstrong
                                                                  89 x 49 inches
                                                     Acrylic, Oil and Assorted Fabrics
                                                                       2011

Anita Varadaraju

September 13, 2011.

That was the date that the 2012 Escapist Mentorship Program Application of Anita Varadaraju was postmarked--more than three and a half months before the Deadline.  I've described on the John Palmer Art Blog that one of the scoring aspects of the written applications is "Discretionary."  For me, this was a definite factor.  It showed me personally that she was hungry, ready and anxious to work with John and take her career to the next level.

In Anita's own words (perfectly hand-written in blue ink...),

"There are times in life when we feel an incredible pull towards one person or thing.  When everything else seems to disappear but that need.  But then our senses kick in and help us decide if achieving itself is as important as how it is done.  Then, we slow down, we analyze, we edit and we prioritize.  This clarity is Escapism."

Although I never have any Escapist "favorites," Anita is already one of my 2012 Gold Stars because she maintains an active Website and Blog.  She has a dedicated Facebook Page and, yes, she Tweets.  Unfortunately, I was in South Carolina during Anita's Skype Interview on Saturday, January 28th, but, John did send me a clip of her speaking via an Iphone video text message.  Her voice alone is marvelous and projected so well in the art studio.  I remember her saying at one point that she didn't want to earn recognition or income from her art "posthumously."  Anita, I'll tell you one thing, Mr. John Ross Palmer has that exact same desire.  It is the goal of the Escapist Mentorship Program to teach artists how to self-promote, sell on their own and not be tied to the traditional art gallery system when they are alive!

In her own words:

"I have a life long commitment to this skill (art).  It seems like I can talk about my work non stop.  I wonder if I even realize that not all audiences want to hear about my work.  But it keeps me immensely happy and always hooked to be with, and be my art."  Anita, that last clause, "Be my art" is classic J.P.  The man is incapable of separating himself from it, and, I love him for that passion.  You should never feel uncomfortable if you think you're audience might not be interested in you or your art.  Don't change yourself.  If anything, change the audience.

Anita, we are so proud of you!  Congratulations on being a 2012 Escapist Artist--it's going to be a simply amazing year and I can't wait for John and I to begin helping you  in every way that we can!

                                     
                                                  The Mansion at the End of the Street
                                                           Artist: Anita Varadaraju
                                                                  48 x 60 inches
                                                              Latex Paint on Canvas
                                                                        2011

Sonya Cuellar

Today's featured 2012 Escapist Artist is Sonya Cuellar of Houston, Texas.  She is the first-ever Escapist Artist whose talents are equally strong in both painting and photography media.  I definitely encourage you to visit her beautiful Website and most definitely read her thoughts on her Blog.  After her selection as a 2012 Escapist Artist, I read her latest Blog entry entitled "The Big Escapism Interview."  Her humble words are so terribly inspiring.  It gave me chills to read about her joy combined with humility in even making it as a Finalist.  Most definitely my favorite part was the closing to the next-to-last paragraph when Sonya states, "I resisted applying in the past out of fear, but this year my desire to be successful as an artist was bigger than my fear and look what happened!"  

In Sonya's own words:

"I loved the idea of 'destroying the stereotype of the struggling artist.'  Every time I tell someone I am an artist, the first thing they say is, 'but what do you do for al living?' Escapism to me means, living my dream, pursuing my passion and having the life I always imagined."  Sonya, just so you know, the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business still gets this same inquiry on a very regular basis!  And, now he and you combined with all of the Escapists are going to do absolutely everything in our power to change that "first question."  Rather, that question should be:

"Where is your studio or gallery?"
"What is your website and can I purchase directly should I love the work?"
"Who do you believe is your most influential collector?"
"Since you're clearly a success, what are you doing to give back to the art community?"
"Do you know John Ross Palmer?"

Ok, that last one is a bit tongue-in-cheek, but, John himself would most definitely prefer any of the previous four as to the typical question described above.  Slowly but surely, through all of our hard work, this will change in our world.

Sonya goes on to say,

"I think self-promotion is of the utmost importance.  My good friend, and Escapist, Edgar Medina, has shown me that you are your biggest advocate.  You have to get out there and promote because no one is going to do it for you.  It's the main reason I took the plunge and decided to open a studio and also decided to apply for the Escapist Program.  I would love to learn more about how to self promote."  Spoken like a true Escapist if I've ever heard it before!  No "P.R." specialist, gallery owner, art dealer or broker will ever promote you with the honesty and intensity that you possess within yourself.  The aforementioned entities are literally interested in one thing and one thing only--making money for themselves and taking care of their business.  The artist is but a conduit for their success.  Take the initiative, sell on your own and have more authority in your own destiny.  Be an Escapist!

Sonya, John and I are both so proud of you.  We look forward to helping you as much as possible this year.  "Taking the plunge" to apply to be an Escapist is only one of a limitless number of future chances you will take to achieve success.  Sometimes we'll fail.  But, we'll learn from that.  Then, we'll try again.  And again.  And again.  There's no stopping an Escapist.

                                      
                                                                           Rust
                                                                  Artist: Sonya Cuellar
                                                                     20 x 16 inches
                                                                   Acrylic on Canvas
                                                                             2010

Lauren Jay Wondra Smyth

Her website will tell you that's she known as the Girly Picasso.  She has lived and created art in all corners of the globe.  She currently resides in London, England and now has the amazing acclaim of being the first-ever Escapist Artist that does not presently reside in Texas.  For this reason, John's mentorship and collaboration with Lauren will be accomplished through Skype, teleconferencing, text and video messaging and all other technical means necessary to make the year a meaningful one.

In Lauren's own words:

"For me, as an artist, Escapism is also a lifestyle which encourages me, as often as possible, to die to the past and awaken to the present moment, to lose and find myself without thought, but the physical creation of art as a meditation, a turning inwards with the powerful assistance of imagination and stillness to let things go...and as I let things go, I Escape."

This beauty has the brains to match.  You discern from her website that Wondra accepted a full academics scholarship to the University of Texas at Austin at age 16, where she capitivated an unlikely passion for both politics and arts, graduating Summ Cum Laude in Sociology (with Honors) and Fashion Design before pursuing a dual LLM and Doctor of Jurisprudence in Texas, DC, England and Wales.

Lauren says,

"Forgiveness is the paramount and most important strength I have an as artist because it allows frees up an infinite amount of space and energy in my life and instills a throwback to innocence, a lightness of heart and willingness to find commonality with other situations and people as a reflection on myself and how I choose to interpret my own existence."  Lauren, in the words of Escapism Founder John Ross Palmer, "There's no such thing as a mistake, and, never erase."  

Watching the interaction between John and this new mom and artist as one sits in Texas and the Escapist in the UK is one of my most anticipated aspects of the 2012 Program.  Lauren, a.k.a Wondra Woman, you are a shining star.  Congratulations!  And, honestly, I'm sure you know, you had us at Satori.

                                      
                                                                                 Death by Capuccino II
                                                                              Artist: Lauren Jay Wondra Smyth
                                                                                         36 x 48 inches
             Pearls, 24c Gold Leaf, Amethyst, Swarovsky Crystals, Newspaper circa 1800's, Antique Wallpaper, Chanel Nail Varnish
                                                    Agate, Petrified Wood, Obsidian, Cobalt, Acrylic & Charcoal on Canvas
                                                                                             2011

Tra Slaughter

Each day this week, I am going to be introducing you to one of our five 2012 Escapist Artists.

I'll start today with Tra (prounounced like "Trey") Slaughter--the only male amongst our cohort of mega-talented artists.  Tra is a primarily self-taught painter that also studied Graphic Design at the Art Institute of Houston.

In his own words:

"Escapism to me, is the time during painting when all of the outside world fades away and all that exists in that time is me and the paint.  It is the time when I am completely lost in the work and the experience of painting and creating and just being lost in the bliss of creating."

As John always says, Art is Healing.  Tra says that "I paint for a lot of reasons as I'm sure we all do, but I suppose my number one reason is because it makes me happy and brings me calm and peace."  I know that in watching J.P., he is at his most centered, focused and peaceful place when he is creating in his art studio.  I think this will be a definite bond between Palmer and Slaughter.

Tra says, "I know, that as an artist, and as a self-promoter, there is always room to grow, and proper avenues to take."  Tra, John and I are going to do everything in our power to help you grow, flourish and succeed.  And, in terms of the "proper avenues,"--you've already started on the right path by simply having the confidence to put in an application for the 2012 Escapist Mentorship Program.  John and I have already been inspired by you, and, now we will strive to give that inspiration back to you.  Congratulations!

                                      
                                             Porcelain Petals and the Big Bad Wolf
                                                               Artist: Tra Slaughter
                                                                   32 x 42 inches
                                                               Oil Stick on Canvas
                                                                         2010

Big Day

In South Carolina, it's a big day for Rhett and Johannah.  They'll be saying their marriage vows in a little less than two hours from now in Greenville.  Last night was such a blast--I can only imagine the fun and revelry at the reception this evening.

In Texas, four of the five Escapist Finalist Interviews are taking place today via Skype.  The pictures and videos that John is sending me via text are totally out of this world.  The interview jury panel consists of a member of the First Class Club, a 2009 Satori collector and a 2010 Escapist Artist.  I thank each of them for giving up their Saturday afternoon to help further the mission of the Escapist Mentorship Program--to forever destroy the stereotype of the struggling artist.  I cannot wait for John to call me later this afternoon with the final scores and the names of the 2012 Escapist Artists!  As soon as I know, you will too!!

This is a friendly reminder of the John Ross Palmer January Open Studio TOMORROW, Sunday, January 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio located at 1218 Heights Boulevard.  Don't miss this event as we'll be opening the crate from Los Angeles!!  Use this opportunity to acquire a painting that has been displayed at an international art fair!  

Clemson

I'm glad to be at home in Clemson with my parents relaxing before a fun wedding tomorrow.  Tonight my dad and I will attend a rehearsal party--I'm so looking forward to seeing a lot of wonderful friends.  Unfortunately, my mom won't be able to make it.  She's totally fine...but, after a nasty spill from the attic she's laid up with a broken arm and foot.  It's truly a miracle that it's not a lot worse and that's why she's remaining positive.  Honestly, she's not getting much sympathy from me.  I keep asking her when she's planning to iron my clothes for the wedding.  These inquires are met, at most, with the rolling of the eyes or mild laughter.  While my dad was at work we had a fabulous lunch at one of my favorite places in the world, Skin's.  It's a hot dog haven--absolutely delicious.  I had three.  My brother used the occasion to remind me of how much weight he's lost.  Thanks, Marshall.

All is well in Houston.  I've given Amanda a million tasks, and, John is getting ready for the Escapist Finalist Interviews on Saturday and the Open Studio slash Open the Crate Party on Sunday.  John has been so sweet and considerate in sending me texts and business updates--and a few here and there of the adorable Bobby.  I'm trying my best not to harass him too much as I know he's just fine and all details will be looked after.  With that, I need to sign off from the John Palmer Art Blog to have a cocktail with my crippled mother and then get ready for the big bash in Greenville!

This is a friendly reminder of the John Ross Palmer January Open Studio this Sunday, January 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio located at 1218 Heights Boulevard.  Don't miss this event as we'll be opening the crate from Los Angeles!!  Use this opportunity to acquire a painting that has been displayed at an international art fair! 

Overwhelmed

I've been up working since the crack of dawn.  J.P. too actually since about 4:50 a.m.  I'm now at peace, having a glass of Chardonnay at the airport, but, this morning I was super nervous about leaving town.  There are so many activities that I would normally be in charge of handling that John and Amanda must coordinate in my absence.  Of course, they'll be totally fine...but, when I think of John being in charge of Escapist Interviews via Skype--I just get a little nervous.  Of course, he has plenty of experience with Skype after our chats to F.C.C. Members from Ireland last summer--so I know he'll be just fine.  Plus, he'll have the interview panelists with him if he's in a pinch and needs a little help.  In terms of the Escapist Interviews, we have one scheduled for this evening and the remaining four scheduled for Saturday afternoon.  Have I mentioned the reason for conducting the interviews via Skype to you before?  I apologize if I've forgotten, but, it's because one of the Finalists does not reside in the United States.  We just felt that if that interview was conducted via Skype, out of fairness, the remainder should be too so that everyone is on equal footing.  The Skype experience itself, I believe, will be telling about how savvy a finalist is with technology.  With 20% of their written application score devoted to their "online presence,"  this component in my opinion is very significant.

To all of the Escapist Finalists, I'd like to let you know the following:  First and foremost, take your interview seriously.  We've lined up an impressive panel of busy and notable individuals and they expect you to wow them.  Having said that, please don't be nervous.  Our panelists are former Escapists and some of John's premier art collectors--they are positive people and our friends.  Have fun and totally be honest and be yourself.  If you are unsure of the meaning of a question, ask them to repeat or rephrase.  If the interviews go anything like last year, there will be lots of smiles, laughs and possibly even a few tears of joy (Nubia!).  You all have accomplished so much to make it to the Finalist stage--you should wear it like a total badge of honor and take that confidence with you into your interview.  It kills me, literally, that I will not be in Houston to listen in as I'll be at a glorious wedding weekend in South Carolina.  However, I was one of the five panelists on your written applications and each of you is so overwhelmingly inspiring to me.  Also, please know, that jury deliberation after the interview will not take long.  You can expect a call within at least two or three hours after the final interview to let you know the names of the 2012 Escapist Artists and if you are in the final cohort.  I wish you the absolute best of luck!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, January 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 1218 Heights Boulevard, Houston, Texas, 77008.

                                  
                                                                    Two Peas in a Pod

Daddy is Home

Although we're both fighting a bit of a head cold (Gosh I hope it's not worse...), returning home last night to the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio was so emotionally rewarding.  Jane always greets us with many hugs and kisses, but, now the combination with little Bobby almost brings tears to our eyes.  There's just really nothing better than unconditional love.

Today we've worked our tails off.  Sorting through a million pieces of mail, giving oodles of work to Amanda combined with John stretching a painting and making a last minute delivery across town amounted to a very hectic but meaningful day.  I could not believe the speed with which it flew by.  Tomorrow, I fly to South Carolina to rejoice in one of my best friend's wedding this weekend.  I met Johannah Cornwell at the Morrison Elementary social before the start of second grade and I've been honored to be her friend since that special day.  It's sort of semi-fabulous slash perfect that she's marrying a handsome gentleman named Rhett.  Johannah, I always thought of you as the epitome of the Southern Belle--it's just kismet!  Also, I'm hunkering down and missing the karaoke fabulous birthday party of the lovely Monica tonight--I'm so sorry babe.  But, Tony's I swear when I return and am back up to speed.

You guys be sure to take care of the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business this weekend as his in-house lover will be out-of-state.  Don't let him get lonely but make sure he misses me plenty!

                                         
                                                                   Attack Daddy!

I Love the United Club

Thank God for the United Club and its free, easy-to-connect-to Wifi.  I'm back!  When I can't get on the internet on my laptop, I can still Facebook and Tweet on my phone.  But, I can't get my Outlook e-mails.  It's a problem because after leaving the art fair you often get last minute e-mails from folks checking in and seeing if a piece is still available.  Actually, I did get one just now--but, not urgent, so thankfully there was no dilemma.  J.P. and I are both nursing colds today.  Sniffles and kind of achey.  We've chalked it up to being "on" for eight days for fair preparation and presentation, our bodies are just a bit mad at us and telling us to take a break.  It won't be that easy.  Once we return to Houston there are plenty of projects to address: the final publication of the Faces book, our pursuit of a corporate sponsor, the decision on naming our 2012 Charity of the Year, the scheduling and execution of the Skype interviews for the five 2012 Escapist Artist Finalists, sending out Press Releases related to our success at the Los Angeles Art Show--ok, that's just to name a few.  Gosh, it makes me want to go get a screwdriver from the bar just to calm my nerves!

I would like to share with you one of the funniest and most rewarding parts of the fair that I haven't put online yet.  Basically, after the fair had closed, John was packing up the crates and I was back at the hotel retrieving our Bill of Lading details.  We had been going back and forth with a potential collector on John's Catalogue piece, Equestrian Escapism No. 4, a huge 50" x 90" masterpiece of racing horses.  The client lived in a high rise just a few blocks from the fair and needed to measure to see if the large piece would fit in her space.  Unfortunately, it didn't.  It was just too big.  At this point, John and I were already pleased because of great sales, but we really wanted this one to close because 1. The client just adored the painting and 2.  It really would catapult our success in Los Angeles to the next level.  Well, while I was back at the hotel, I get a text from the client, "I've moved some furniture around and it will now fit--is it still available!?"  Absolutely!  I called John with the fabulous news, "Babe, a miracle has occurred.  We sold the piece--don't put it in the crate!"  John almost died.  Now, here's the funny part.  Because it does cost hundreds of dollars to arrange for delivery and installation--we decided to do it ourselves.  This meant John would carry the painting (made of wood...) while I carried his backpack, my law bag, our small roller luggage and the toolbox.  About half a block into our journey, John decided, after being inspired by our trip to Africa in 2005, that the most effecient way to carry the piece would be on top of his head.  So, please just imagine, Mr. John Ross Palmer, carrying a massive painting, at night, right by the Staples Center with game traffic present, on his head with me leading.  Guys, they don't call him The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business for nothing!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, January 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 1218 Heights Boulevard, Houston, Texas, 77008.

                               
                                                           Equestrian Escapism No. 4 now lives in Los Angeles!

Last Full Day in Los Angeles

To say that I've been infuriated with the lack of wifi connectivity from our room in Los Angeles is a great understatement.  I've now been placed in the Club Lounge during unauthorized hours so that I can use the terminal here to FB, Tweet, update our website and type out a brief John Palmer Art Blog.  I really just wanted to let you guys know that yes, I am alive, and, I'm doing my best to keep you updated on our trip to the West Coast.  A simple text that I sent to Kelley, Ryan, Edgar, Raul, Zak and Nubia at 9:56 p.m. last night should sum it all up:

"Dear Escapists, I'm thilled to let you know this was our gallery's most successful fair ever.  Due to many Escapist sales and the literally last-minute sale of John's Catalogue piece, we had a helluva great show!  Love you all lots for you talent and support and your ongoing enthusiasm of Escapism!"

Guys, we nailed it.  I can wait to see many of you in person to go over all of the war stories, but, as for now I'm going to have to log off, flirt with my husband, have him treat me to lunch in Hollywood before going for drinks at the Abbey.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, January 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 1218 Heights Boulevard, Houston, Texas, 77008.

Los Angeles Day 4

Los Angeles Day 3

We sold one!  A big one!  Congratulations to 2010 Escapist Artist Edgar Medina for placing the first piece from John Palmer Fine Art at the 2012 Los Angeles Art Show.  Guys, I can't keep you posted on each sale and each great connection we make here in the City of Angels, but, the first one is always so special.  The whole lot of us can now "start breathing" and relax.  A wave of powerful energy spreads throughout our booth, knowing that we've been immediatly validated for our many, many months of hard work and preparation.  Of course, Edgar was ecstatic.  He was present to meet his new collectors--a super handsome young couple with three small children at home.  The eldest of which asked his parents, "Are you going to bring any art home with you?"  Gosh, I love when kids ask such cool questions...and, I love it even more when the parents deliever when they arrive home with a new masterpiece!

Today, John is starting off the shift at the fair and I'll return around 3:00 p.m.  I forgot that I had taken the sign-in book back to the hotel and so I had to rush it over to the Convention Center.  Right now, I'm at Hooters "working" diligently on my laptop and sipping on an ice cold Miller Lite.  So, life is good.  I'm getting to work with good wifi, drink beer, eat wings and promote the heck out of my husband, the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business.  It's so funny, y'all.  We've had several Houston collectors come by our booth.  This makes us soooo happy and makes us smile so big to know that they have traveled this great distance to support our art gallery.  Well, one of the collectors brought a group of about eight LA friends and family with him to the fair.  In a group circle, he's explaining to them about their Palmer pieces and give a lot of nice words about his support of the Houston community.  Finally he says, actually, "John is known throughout the world as 'The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business.'"  I almost melted with pride.  Again, thank you all for your online support and praise--I'm doing my absolute best to make you feel like you are here with us!

                             
                                     John Ross Palmer with Houston's Calli Saitowitz and Friends

Los Angeles Day 2

Yesterday was an incredible whirlwind.  John and I were up extremely early to get to the Booth and finalize set-up.  Although it was back-breaking work (mainly for the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business...), we got it done.  We have given such attention to detail, and, people are taking notice!  Even our price tags are totally V.I.P.--in black frames, white mats, black background and white lettering.  They look so stunning against our signature all black John Palmer Fine Art Booth walls.  After having only a few hours to eat and get dressed after set-up, we made it back to the Los Angeles Convention Center for the Patron and Premiere parties.  It was glorious.  I am so thrilled to announce that we had six of our seven artists in attendance--with Kelley Devine making it to L.A. on Friday.  It's just amazing and so rewarding to see the revelers enjoy our booth and our art.  I was super-pleased to greet a number of Houston collectors as well as L.A. contacts that I mailed V.I.P. tickets to.  We decided to walk back to our hotel...and, after a glass of wine and small bite we slept like kings.

Today, John is starting his shift at the fair as I'm catching up on some business at the hotel.  I'll be there to man the Booth around 3:00 p.m.--the show goes on until 7:00 p.m.  We'll of course have the assistance of the Escapist Artists if we need to take a small break.  I would like to thank all of you that have been following our journey and images on Facebook!  Please do continue to Like, Comment and Share when you see them as each time you do it gives us a little boost with the knowledge that there are so many folks rooting for the overall success of Escapism.

                              
                                                                                    So Proud!

Los Angeles

We're here!  Having a blast!  We will no doubt have a glorious Premiere Party opening tomorrow night!  Unfortunately I can't type a long John Palmer Art Blog--our internet connectivity is so touch-and-go at our hotel....long story, but, it has given us a room upgrade to the Club Level!  More tomorrow!

                                    
                                                           John Palmer Fine Art of Houston, Texas

What Happens

In Vegas...will definitely be described on Facebook.  I can't type a long John Palmer Art Blog because my mom takes a quick shower, but, we are having an absolute blast and our room at Caesar's is off the chain to put it mildly.  First lesson in Vegas: if you need someone to negotiate a room upgrade, call in my mother.  I'm not kidding.  This room is literally unbelievable...and now I have about one hour now to enjoy the view and get dressed for dinner--I can't wait! 

                              
                                                                       No Kidding

Viva Las Vegas

I have an early flight to Vegas tomorrow morning.  I'll land at about 10:30 a.m. NV time and then wait about an hour and a half before my mom's flight lands.  I'm hoping that I'll be sober enough to recognize her.  She'll most likely be pleased that I'll be clean shaven but probably not 100% behind my new military haircut.  We'll catch a taxi to Caesar's Palace and either check in or have them hold our bags until our room is ready.  Mama has already informed me that I am to approach the desk alone and let them know that this trip is in honor of my mom's 65th birthday and so it would be so appreciated if we could get a room upgrade.  She turns 65 on June 5, 2012.  Anyway, my friend Lori hooked us up with some pretty fabulous lunch places and there's no doubt we'll pick one of those.  Lori gave me suggestions that centered around gourmet hamburgers and wings and so we'll be set.  On Saturday night we'll be dining at Picasso's at the Bellagio.  Fingers crossed that we'll get the "George & Julia" table.  We actually know a family member of a friend of my cousin's that works there so that pretty much gives it a guarantee.  I imagine we'll gamble a bit or have some cocktails before retiring--Celine awaits us the following day.

My main goal for Sunday: stay sober and don't embarrass my mother.  It seems simple enough...but, it is Vegas.  And, I am a 34 year old totally butch gentleman taking his mother to see Celine Dion.  Please see me good energy and restraint.  We made dinner reservations at Bobby Flay's Mesa Grille right at the hotel so we'll just be a hop, skip and a jump away from seeing the Goddess in action.  I can't wait!  And, I know my mom is dying excited.  It has been a dream of hers to see Celine for as long as I can remember--and I'm just glad that I'll be helping make that dream a reality.

John's buddy Jim is in town from Colorado.  We'll have fun tonight and they'll enjoy a laid-back weekend together before John flies out to Los Angeles on Monday.  We are so ready!

(There may not be a ton of John Palmer Art Blogging while we are in Vegas as the sound of my fingers on the keypad drives my mom ape...but I'll do my best!)

                                      
                                                   Homemade Celine Card by Judy Lindsay to Ryan Lindsay

Martini Thursday

It's a tad past 6:00 p.m. and I'm only  now getting to the John Palmer Art Blog.  We've been devilishly busy, and, since mid-afternoon my laptop has been in the hands of one of our John Ross Palmer Art Collectors that is scoring the 2012 Escapist Artist Applications.  Although I have my moments of temporary insanity when I'm not allowed to access my e-mail and other online venues so quickly on my laptop...the time away from the virtual world always bodes well for our home and art gallery.  Laundry gets folded.  Dishes get washed.  The cat box gets cleaned and Bobby's crate smells like roses.  I've also used the time to run some errands--including the little man's first trip to the vet.  Now, I'm sure the vet always says that the new addition to your family looks beautiful, but, this time, I know they meant it.

Amanda has been working like a maniac on the smallest of details related to price tags and Artist Porfolios for the Los Angeles Art Show.  We have one more day before I leave on my Vegas-Celine-extravaganza with my gorgeous mother so we'll need to get all of the heavy lifting completed by tomorrow.  I'm so sure Amanda will be ready to be at the helm of the John Palmer Art Business next week as the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business and I will be on the sunny West Coast peddling fabulous art.  Amanda, needless to say, no parties in our absence...

J.P. has been up since about 5:00 a.m.  I don't know his current inspiration, but, he's been putting in really long days.  I think he's under pressure (from me...) to complete the final Faces pieces so I can leave for California with the peace-of-mind that the largest commission project in the history of his career has been basically put to bed.  As soon as our collector friend C.B. finishes his scoring, his wife is going to join us for a very filthy, dirty martini.  Good times.  And, yes, I do know that it's Thursday!

Amanda's computer doesn't take my camera chip!

Eight O'clock

I hate it when I start typing out the John Palmer Art Blog at this late hour.  Yes, I know that 8:00 p.m. is not necessarily that "late" for most adults, but, for J.P. and me, it's like very nearing our bedtime.  After a long day of appointments and more appointments, we decided to drive over to F Bar Houston to have a few cocktails.  It was fun as all-get-out and we enjoyed telling the days' war stories with each other, but, after we get home, corral the animals, shut down the house and then find a good television show to veg out too...I suddenly spurt out, "I need to go type out the Blog."  It's cool.  You guys know that I am super-enthusiastic about trying to get it posted every day...and, at the same time empowered when it's my time just to leave it alone and not post the damn thing.  Seriously, this week, the business of John Palmer Art has been cooking.  Preparations for Los Angeles, final submission to the publisher for the Faces book amidst courting our F.C.C. and potential corporate sponsors--we're done, Babe.  Done.

But, as I described in my text to Amanda like an hour and a half ago, "you better get ready it's going to be 'hair on fire' the next few days here at J.P. Art!"  The only funny thing about this is that, with John, Amanda and me, it would be more torture to not be working towards great things and sitting aimlessly in a cube with no one to call and no project to finalize.  So, with that, send the business of John Palmer Art good energy in these next few days.  And, after that, send me some sanity as I'm taking my fabulous mother to see Celine at Caesar's this weekend.  Epic.

  No picture tonight.  Just think of me embracing Celine.

Birthday Boy

Yesterday afternoon my computer was comandeered by the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business so that he could view images and online information about the 2012 Escapist Applicants.  So, there's my excuse (not a very good one) for no posting of the John Palmer Art Blog.  Today has been quite fun and relaxing.  After pushing some paper off of my desk--John's mom joined us at 11:00 a.m. to treat J.P. and me to lunch for his 38th birthday.  We traveled up to Conroe and went for a fabulous lunch at the April Sound Country Club.  The conversation was lively and a lot focused on the family history in Montreal.  It's really quite fascinating and something that is very inspiring for John.

Regarding the jury process for the 2012 Escapist Mentorship Program, we are 60% complete with the scoring of the written applications.  That is, John, Amanda and I have scored all of them.  Due to extremely busy lives, the two collector panelists will be judging on a later date--tentatively one on Thursday and one next Tuesday.  After the final panelist goes through the applications--I will then tally the scores and see if a clear cohort has been revealed.  If not, we'll move into the interview phase.  No matter what happens, John will be calling all of the applicants personally while we are in L.A. for the Los Angeles Art Show.  This year will no doubt be the toughest for J.P. because there are so many applicants--all of them wonderful.

After a fun drive back from Conroe, J.P. is now enjoying a glass of wine and a hot bath.  I'm about to head out to pick up a few last minute birthday surprises and our dinner.  The birthday boy wants Thai--so Thai it will be.  I'd like to personally thank you all for the many kind text messages and Facebook comments that you've given to him today.  Although he's not a Facebooker, on this date each year I print them all out for him to see and cherish.  He always tapes them in his journal and has such a delight reading over the names of so many wonderful friends.  Happy Birthday J.P. I love you!

                        
                                                       One of My Favorites 10.13.07

Great Sunday

It's funny.  At one point today, I explained to John that there was absolutely no point to Sundays because: 1.  You don't get mail. and 2.  It's just gives you anxiety because Monday is the next day.  Does anybody tend to agree?  Anyway, in looking back at the day as a whole, we had a good one.  I caught up with a great friend over breakfast, J.P. and I enjoyed a late lunch at Berryhill in the Heights and there was tons of snuggling and lazy time with Bobby and Jane.  Jane is still having her moments with Bobby, but, I think for the most part things are looking positive and that she won't murder him.  I even caught John having a "dead serious" conversation with Jane about how nobody (Bennett, Olive and Pete) mistreated her when she joined our family.  However, if you remember, Jane joined us as a 3 year old fifty pound dog.  Bobby, not so much.  But, in simply a flash Bobby will probably be outweighing Jane...and that's a factor that we should be reminding her of in these early days of his life and their relationship.

The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business started off the day, after a lengthy bath of course, with a fun art installation for one of our biggest and best collectors.  He's spent a great amount of the remainder of the day in his art studio--working on a good number of commissions.  This week will be hectic, but of course, rewarding.  The jury panel is likely to convene to score the applications for the 2012 Escapist Mentorship Program.  I've mentioned on Facebook that there are a record number of applicants--something we're all obviously proud and excited about--but, it will just make the job so much harder and tougher.  But, it's certainly a "good" problem to have.  With more applications and more interest in the program, it confirms that our grassroots effort to destroy the stereotype of the struggling artist is gaining momentum.  We'll be taking that message loun-and-clear to Los Angeles in less than two weeks.  Gosh, that reminds me.  I need to brush up on my 90210 knowledge.  My friend Sue and I were fanatics about that show.  In fact, at one point, we realized that every one of this world's problems could be solved by pointing to a specific episode of Beverly Hills 90210 and its resolution.  Friend in a cult? See episode XYZ.  Boyfriend leave you for your best friend while you were busy hooking up with Superman in France? See episode ABC.  Take a pyromaniac to a rave?  See episode 123.  God, I love 90210, and, I think I just might love some L.A.

                               
                                                      Still Our No. 1 Lady

The Little Man has Arrived

I apologize for the failure to post the John Palmer Art Blog yesterday.  It was a long, but, glorious day.  I spent the morning driving to Sulfur, Louisiana to pick up Bobby Palmer, our 7 week old English Pointer.  He's the most perfect animal I've ever seen in my life.  Well, except for Jane of course.  The car ride back to Houston commenced and he cried like a baby for about 15 minutes.  Then, all quiet.  It honestly made me nervous.  Did he choke on something?  Why no noise all of a sudden?  But, we pulled over at the Texas Welcome Center--and, there he was, perfectly fine.  I took him out for a walk and you could tell that people were staring at his beauty.   That makes me feel fabulous.  Anyway, I sped back to Houston so that he could be introduced to John, Amanda, and, most importantly, Jane.  His first meeting with Jane was beautiful.  I brought them both out on the Boulevard esplanade to meet in an open and natural area.  Lots of sniffs.  Bobby was certainly ready to play.  Jane, not so much.  Their friendship, I believe, is off to as good of a start as could be expected.  Jane has only tried to kill him once and that nip didn't really qualify as a bite in my opinion--although it scared the heck out of J.P.!

Last night we hosted a members only cocktail party for the First Class Club.  It was so fun.  I had informed them in an e-mail on the prior day that they would be joined by a "Mystery Guest."  Of course, the guest ended up having four legs and a tail.  But honestly, I don't think they would have been more excited even if it was a human celebrity.  We also informed them of the choice of destination for John's 2012 study-abroad adventure.  Look to Facebook in a few minutes where I'll be making the public announcement.  Needless to say, John and I are so crazy excited about the trip--and I'm equally inspired about all of the planning and research it will require.  I hope that you all are having a marvelous weekend.  Let's go Texans!

                             
                                                                        Mr. Bobby Palmer

Shipper

We must ship to the art, plus everything else necessary, tomorrow morning to Los Angeles.  Thank you for accepting this extremely brief John Palmer Art Blog.

Whew

It's been a helluva day at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio.  Well, there was a bit of a festive lunch in the middle of a helluva day.  But, Amanda and I did complete two major mailers.  Amanda did the "major" heavy-lifting on a Save the Dates Notice we're sending to our VIP collector database.  I worked tirelessly to send out VIP tickets to art-loving Los Angeles contacts.  Believe me, we've dug deep to promote our gallery's presence in L.A. and get these tickets into the right hands.  After a long trip at the United States Post Office in Downtown Houston (the line was totally fine, I just didn't have any stamps so I had to stamp over 300 envelopes...), John and I had a great therapy session and came up with a plan of attack if the situation is Los Angeles is not ideal.  John and I are, of course, Dreamers, and so we never expect, manifest or believe in a poor experience.  But, we've now realized that if things are popping as we've hoped and prayed, we can fall back into Plan B, look ahead and use the time to network and plan for bigger and better things.

I've been writing so many notes and stuffing so many envelopes I'm totally beat!  I'm ready to enjoy some wine and watch the Orange Bowl.  One guess who I'm pulling for?

                             
                                                                   Mailer Aftermath

Scoring

Cockadoodledoo

Go Gamecocks!!  Today's John Palmer Art Blog is dedicated to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks.  Woo Hoo!  I can't believe we won the Capital One Bowl so handily!  John has been at the art gallery and studio for most of the day--as I've been out with Monica H. enjoying wings and beer and screaming our team to victory at Buffalo Wild Wings.  Y'all, it's hard to be a Gamecock.  But, on days like this, it's simply magnificent.  Go Cocks!!

                                      
                                                                             Caw Caw!!

2012

Happy New Year John Palmer Art Blog Readers!  How did you ring it in?  I've uploaded some photos to Facebook and so you probably know that we stayed IN, enjoyed champagne and a low country boil big enough to feed an army.  Now, I'm not 100% sure about this, but, I think we might have been fast asleep by 9:00 p.m.  I've never been so tired and full in my life.  It was so delicious.  All aspects of the boil were perfect save and except for the onions--I think I put those in a tad too early so they were cooked down more than I would prefer.  Otherwise--the shrimp, the sausage, the corn and the potatoes were to-die-for.  We've been up since quite early--enjoying watching our friend Ainsley on F&F.  John's enjoying coffee and a hot tub while I'm downstairs catching up one some things online before I get back to the kitchen and preparing our traditional New Year's Day luncheon.  We'll have grilled pork chops complemented by a spicy brown mustard, Carolina red rice, collard greens with a splash of white vinegar, black eyed peas and jalepeno cornbread.  It's one of my absolute favorite meals and I take such pride in preparing it for John to ring in a new and prosperous year.  It's a chilly but sunny and gorgeous day here in Houston, Texas.  Although today should be reserved for rest, relaxation and rejoicing--there's pretty much no way that I will be able to stay away from working for just a few hours.  I need to begin preparing the 2012 Escapist Applications for the jury process.  This year, the jury panel has been increased.  It will consist of John, Amanda and me--but also two of John's most esteemed collectors.  We take this process extremely seriously--score categories individually and do not allow talking or debate amongst the panelists.  Because of the high number of applicants, I do believe that we'll have to have an in-person interview component just like we did with the 2011 Escapist Artists.  Of course, I don't know this for certain.  If the jury panel reveals a clear cohort--it might not be necessary.  And...I literally cannot believe that we'll be in Los Angeles in less than three weeks!  We're "ready," but, there's still a million little details to take care of!

I hope that you all have a healthy, fun, meaningful and successful 2012!  Stay tuned to the John Palmer Art Blog--if you ever need a laugh or a little inspiration--we'll be here for you all year long.

                          
                                                              Ready to Start Cooking!!

2011

Because we've started the tradition of presenting the Vallone Award (Collector of the Year for John Palmer Art) at our annual black tie event in October, this year you haven't seen the typical Count-Down of Noteworthy Individuals in these last few days of 2011.  However, this is the date on which I always reflect on the Top Five Moments for John and me that have occurred within the last calendar year.  Many of you are cherished regulars on the John Palmer Art Blog and so I'm sure that you'll remember these joyous, fun and/or memorable occasions.  John and I work hard and therefore have many miracles and blessings bestowed upon us.  There are five of my favorites from this past year:

5.  Meeting Ireland's Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald.  This was easily the highlight of our trip to Dublin, Ireland.  The meeting was orchestrated by our good friend Gerardine McKeon--a personal friend of Minister Fitzgerald.  She was so gracious, adored her Palmer Faces portrait and loved taking photographs with my favorite artist.  It was so inspiring to meet such a high-ranking public official that was so kind, funny and spirited.  We loved every second.

4.  Watching John judge the Michigan Fine Arts Competition.  I am proud of John's hard work and accomplishments on a daily basis, but, I was just floored by this whole experience.  Although a successful artist, John rarely ever wins a prize when he enters into an art competition.  Therefore, to watch him serve as the sole juror for such a prestigious competition (600+ entries) was like a dream come true.  The grand prize winner was moved to tears and I could feel the real impact that John was giving to her self-confidence, both as a person and an artist.  It's something I'll never forget.

3.  The Death of Bennett Palmer.  I'm sure you might find it strange that one of the most horrific experiences of our lives falls on this list.  While is was happening, it certainly would not have.  But, in hindsight, it was a powerful, loving and real growth experience for John and me to send Bennett to Heaven.  Y'all, Bennett was the best.  He always snuggled so tight to you and wanted to sip water from the tub.  The pain has now left us and we only have beautiful and stunning memories of Mr. B.  He was a rockstar.

2.  Wathching Collecting John Palmer.  If you haven't seen it yet, please do.  It's divided into a three-part series on both the John Ross Palmer Artist Page on Facebook as well as the John Palmer Art Channel on YouTube.  Although I was heavily involved with the production of this stellar video, it only because a work of art when I watched it with John on the night of December 23, 2011.  Seeing all of those faces that have supported John for so long gave us both such an overwhelming emotional reaction.  And, y'all, you know I hate to pick favorites.  But, that line at the end where our friend Dr. Lynn Dickens wishes John a Merry Christmas and tells him that "he gives more to people that anybody but Santa Claus" just kills me every single time.  John, it's true.  I hope and pray that this world will remember you for your big heart and generosity--it amazes me every day.

1.  Married in New York City: November 5, 2011.  I don't know if there could be a more perfect place for a gay couple to say their vows in New York City than the Stonewall Inn, the location where the modern day gay rights movement was launched.  John and I dressed to the nines.  The vows were sweet and simple and there was a brief historical recitation of Governor Cuomo's landmark signing of the marriage equality law.  We had such a great mix of friends that toasted us and celebrated in another union for us.  2011 had its ups and downs.  But, any day in which I get to marry Artist John Ross Palmer will always be my favorite, year after year.

                                  
                                                                                     I Do!

Suzie

Today's John Palmer Art Blog is dedicated to Miss Suzie Flores.  For the last two years, you've devoted your time, wisdom, hard work and style to improve the business of John Palmer Art immeasurably.  You will be sorely missed, but, our hearts will we warmed and fulfilled with the knowledge that your star is continuing to rise in this world.  Lots of Love, John, Ryan, Amanda, Jane, Olive, Pete and Bennett too.

                            
                                                                            Sobbing

Dinner Plans

Tonight, J.P. and I are off to a fun dinner at our favorite restaurant with terrific friends.  I'm sure to upload plenty of pictures to Facebook soon thereafter--and so for now, I must sign off on the John Palmer Art Blog.  It's been an extremely long and productive day--and so tonight is very much well deserved by the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business and his husband.

                             
                                                   Hostess with the Mostess

Video

I'm super-thrilled to announce that I've finally been able to share John's Christmas present with the world!  If you visit the John Ross Palmer Artist Page on Facebook, you'll see a new video, divided into a three part series, entitled Collecting John Ross Palmer.  With the help of our outstandingly talented neighbors, Aaron Coleman and his partner David E.F.P. with 2osos Productions, I've been assisting in producing a video that serves as a tribute to John from his cherished collectors.  Each segment lasts about 10 minutes--and so, please, when you have a spare half hour then do check them out.  So much love and hard work went into this production and I guarantee that you will be able to see that upon viewing.  The collectors that were interviewed alongside me spoke with such passion and emotion about the impact that the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business has had on their lives.  Personally, since the day before Christmas Eve, I think I've watched the video in its entirety no less than thirty times.  With each viewing, I'm able to see new elements that have escaped me previously.  I would truly like to dedicate today's John Palmer Art Blog to the collectors that were personally interviewed for this project: Dr. Lynn Dickens, Julio Montano, Scott & Yvette Hill and Herb & Vicki Pasternak.  Each of you took your personal time to be recorded, unscripted, and speak from the heart about John and his hard work as an artist.  It means the world to me and will never be forgotten.

Artists, this is a friendly reminder to have your application postmarked for the 2012 Escapist Mentorship no later than December 31, 2011. You can find the short and simple downloadable application by clicking here.


                             
                                                 Next Project: Get Ready for Los Angeles!

Green Papaya

Dallas

Holiday Luncheon

We laughed.  We had fine champagne.  We told stories.  J.P. and I had to take our jackets off (a never...) because we were so warm with joy (and delicious food).  It's been a long, fun and glorious day celebrating our year of hard work.  Suzie and Amanda, this day is dedicated to you.  Thank you for everything you do for us and helping to consistently elevate the business of John Palmer Art to the next level!

Artists, this is a friendly reminder to have your application postmarked for the 2012 Escapist Mentorship no later than December 31, 2011. You can find the short and simple downloadable application by clicking here.

                      
                                                                            Joy x 2

Bobby

So far, I only have two pictures that I've posted online of the puppy we've selected as the newest member of our family.  He was born in Little Rock, Arkansas five weeks ago and we plan to name him Bobby in honor of my Uncle Bobby.  We made the announcement to family over the Thanksgiving holiday to much fan-fare--even though my mom told me that she thought we were gearing up to let them know we've entered the adoption process!  Our breeder, Nancy, forwarded me images of four male pups.  It's kind of hilarious.  They were all definitely adorable.  Because I'm sure it's more proper to give them identification more than just A, B, C and D--our pups were named after various characters in the Harry Potter series.  So, we actually selected Bobby, a.k.a. Snape, over the other three choices: Harry, Dumbledore and Draco.  I love it!  Anyway, I think it's a total blessing that we'll have him in early January because of our two-day trip to Dallas right after Christmas.  That way, we can do our best to get him used to our home, our other children and our extended friends and family before we leave for the big trip to Los Angeles.  We can't wait to see him!  We have high hopes that he'll take on the characteristics of his big sister Jane.  If he turns out half as sweet and affectionate as the Lady then we'll have gotten a total prize-winner.

With the business of art, John and I are running on fumes.  I'm getting my days mixed up and John is pressed to the wire to finish commissions.  We would never complain--esp. during this typically slow month for the art business, but, it is taking its toll and I'm ready for a little R & R after the holiday and before the New Year.  With New Year's Eve, we typically stay in and watch television--doing our best to watch the ball drop in New York City.  Although we have the benefit of an "extra" hour--it of course never, ever happens.  In the coming days, I hope that you all will have safe travels to see friends and family.  I'm sure it's going to be a very, Merry, Christmas and Happy Holidays for one and all.

Artists, this is a friendly reminder to have your application postmarked for the 2012 Escapist Mentorship no later than December 31, 2011.  You can find the short and simple downloadable application by clicking here.

                                
                                                                        Bobby

Back in Business

As you may have noticed, I took a weekend hiatus from writing the John Palmer Art Blog while I was with my family in Clemson for an early Christmas celebration.  John stayed back in Houston and I was amazed to see the number of projects he's worked towards full or almost-full completion.  I'm still having a bit of an after-glow related to our successful art auction at F Bar.  One thing that occurred that night that I haven't told you about here on the John Palmer Art Blog is John's winning of the 1st Annual Bob Briddick Community Person of the Year Award--given by Outreach United.  They showered John with praise and the resident artist even got a little choked up.  The award was a total surprise to John and of course very valued and cherished.  Although we apply for plenty of awards, honestly, it's rare that we actually win anything.  Needless to say, I was extremely proud of him and honored to see him rewarded for his community contributions.  About an hour ago, I uploaded a new Photo Album on Facebook where you can see a handful of fabulous images from the special evening.

I feel like I've gotten a tremendous amount of work accomplished even though it's just lunch time.  We have three Escapist studio visits today to select pieces for our January showing at the Los Angeles Art Show.  This exercise is mighty fun but also a tad difficult--there is always such amazing work to choose from--but of course limited space in the crate that will ship our art gallery's pieces to the fair.  By the end of this week, we should have visited all six art studios and should be full to the brim with fabulous artwork.  The diversity and strength of our showing in Los Angeles should be quite remarkable.  Try and make it if you can!!

                                      
                                             Bob Briddick with John Ross Palmer

F Bar Items

Guys, the set up for the John Ross Palmer Art Auction at F Bar looks tremendous!  It took John and me a little more than two hours once there--of course, J.P. has the lighting hitting the large pieces to perfection.  Because I still have many tasks to perform before heading back to the hottest venue in Houston, my description of items is going to have to come from memory, as, of course, I don't have a master list.  So, here goes nothing:

70 x 40 inches Industrial.
70 x 40 inchese Landscape.
70 x 40 inchese Face.
72 x 20 inches Neon Box.
46 x 40 Carnivale.
46 x 40 Equestrian.
46 x 40 Purple Escapism.
46 x 40 Landscape.
A Pair of Framed Fishing Fly pieces.
A Framed Barcelona piece.
Equestrian-Escapism 2011 no.'s 1, 5, 6 and 10.
Five pottery pieces.
A Pair of 18 x 18 inch Carnivale pieces.
A 30 x 30 Commission Pet Portrait.
6 Framed Skopelos 2011 pieces.
Berlin 2010 No. 2.
A Pair of Tokyo 2006 pieces.
Two Framed Equestrian pieces on paper.
A Set of Three Stix.
A Pair of Framed Skopelos 2009 pieces.
An 18 x 18 inch Periodical piece featured in the Nave Museum Book.
A fabulous dinner at Tony's.
A fabulous dinner at Ciao Bello.
A Salvage Wood Sculpture.
An 18 x 18 piece featuring a Tractor.
An evening at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio where Palmer creates a painting for you live.
A 46 x 40 masterpiece that Palmer created live at the 2011 Evening of Escapism.
Live auction: You're going to have to show up to find out!!  It's a show-stopper for sure!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Art Auction at F Bar TONIGHT, Thursday evening, December 15, 2011 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.. F Bar is located at 202 Tuam St., Houston, Texas 77006. Bidding ends promptly at 9:30 p.m.!!

No picture today--you're going to have to show up to see these amazing Palmer pieces!

Tired

I'm tired as all get-out.  John is too.  He's working away on commission projects upstairs as I'm handling house-business downstairs--mainly getting the garbage to the curb, returning phone calls, responding to e-mails and typing up the John Palmer Art Blog.  We had a major meeting this afternoon where we pitched our hearts out, and, so for that reason we're taking it easy tonight, trying to get plenty of sleep and of course prepare and be ready for tomorrow's massive art auction at F Bar benefitting Outreach United.  It's hard to fathom that I'll be in South Carolina vistiting my family for an early Christmas celebration in less than two days.  John, due to business, is going to have to stay back and focus on work, but, this is totally ok because he raged with the Lindsay/Holt/Crump crowd big-time over the Thanksgiving holiday.  I swear, sometimes I think my family enjoys him more than me.  Of course, that's an illusion. 

Although we are still a few weeks away from the onset of 2012, I wanted to let you guys know that John and I have had a very successful and productive 2011.  It didn't start out that way.  In fact, our first quarter was so sluggish that I was concerned about how we were going to achieve and implement all of the upcoming projects and ventures we mapped out.  But, based on our CPA's financial statements through only end-of-October 2011, we are doing great!  It's so breathtaking when you see the "big picture" and take youself away from the month-to-month bills and financial responsibilities--when you are able to see your cumulative accomplishments and milestones.  Today's presentation did involve, subtlely...a list of John's 2011 career accomplishments.  When I typed them out and read them aloud to myself before the meeting, even I was emotional.  Although we get caught in the business of art so heavily--when we look to the difference and change we are instituting in the arts world--we come away feeling as if magic has occurred.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Art Auction at F Bar TOMORROW, Thursday evening, December 15, 2011 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.. F Bar is located at 202 Tuam St., Houston, Texas 77006. Bidding ends promptly at 9:30 p.m.!!


                            
                                                             Presentation Documents

F Bar

This morning I've spent the majority of my time planning for Thursday evening's event at F Bar.  Guys, it's going to be an amazing auction!  Once I get all of the items finalized, I'll either post the list here on the John Palmer Art Blog or on Facebook--knowing me, probably both...I know for sure that it will feature appoximately 40 items.  Some large paintings, some smaller ones.  A fabulous selection of pottery.  Dining experiences at two of Houston's most fabulous restaurants.  A private gathering hosted at the John Palmer Gallery & Studio.  I learned from John yesterday that the event is now also going to include some world-class entertainment and a live auction item.  This special piece has not been determined as of this second, but, John and I have discussed it and are almost 100% decided.  By tomorrow morning (Wednesday), that decision will be made and I'll be posting a picture of the designated item online.  John had a shift in his calendar today, so, most of the day he'll be working on commissions in his art studio.  Very exciting.  I simply cannot wait for him to finish the remaining Faces pieces and so I can have them photographed and run full-force on the production of the book.  Gosh, 2012 is going to be here before we know it!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Art Auction at F Bar this Thursday evening, December 15, 2011 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m..  F Bar is located at 202 Tuam St., Houston, Texas 77006.  Bidding ends promptly at 9:30 p.m.!!


                                               
                                                   If you missed Sunday, don't miss Thursday!

Wine

I love wine.  I really love it a lot.  After a very successful weekend and going without booze for 7 days, I had to have some.  And, with that sentiment, I am now going to flirt with my hardworking husband and see what happens.  Love!

                                  
                                                                        My Husband

Holiday Cheer Party

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Holiday Cheer Party, TOMORROW, Sunday, December 11, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

Because we had it set up for last night's hugely successful Corporate Cocktail Party, John and I have decided to execute on a small but SPECTACULAR silent art auction during tomorrow's Holiday Cheer Party!

                                 
                                                                    Don't Miss This!

We have 19 items up for auction, they are as follows:
1. Sundance.  This 40" x 90" masterpiece was created live in the 2010 Neiman Marcus Holiday Window.  Retail: $14,500.  Minimum Bid: $5,000.
2. Three Tokyo 2006 pieces.  These animation-inspired pieces were created by Palmer on his 2006 study-abroad adventure to Tokyo, Japan. Retail: $6,900.  Minimum Bid: $2,000.
3. Periodical.  This 18" x 18" Palmer painting was featured in a series of three and featured at the Nave Museum in the Summer of 2010.  This is this last available of the set.  It is included in the Nave Museum Book and two signed copies of the book are included with the prize.  Retail: $2,900.  Minimum Bid: $800.
4.  Two Skopelos 2009 Framed Monoprints.  John created these non-conformist monoprints on his third adventure to Skopelos Island, Greece during 2009.  Retail: $700.  Minimum Bid: $250.
5. Minimal Escapism 46 x 40 inches.  Escapism is Palmer's Art Movement devoted to forever destroying the stereotype of the struggling artist.  Retail: $9,600.  Minimum Bid: $2,500.
6.-9.  Items's 6 through 9 are original John Ross Palmer pottery pieces and combinations thereof.  Minimum bids start at around $75 for these high quality originals that retail for over $300.
10-11.  Framed, Original Equestrian pieces on paper.  Since his childhood, Palmer has been inspired by the beauty and strength of horses.  Retail: $1,800.  Minimum Bid: $500.
12. Carnivale 30 x 30 inches on wood.  Palmer's Carnivale style was inspired by his travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina during 2007.  Retail: $6,300.  Minimum Bid: $2,000.
13. Tractor.  This 18 x 18 painting on wood is inspired by this fifth generation Texan's love of the land around him.  Retail: $2,900.  Minimum Bid: $800.
14.  2 Framed Fishing Fly pieces.  These rare but popular pieces were created in 2011 after Palmer was inspired by his relatives fishing in Ocean Isle, North Carolina.  Retail: $1,800.  Minimum Bid: $500.
15. A fabulous $800 Tab at Houston's Tony's.  Includes tip, tax and alcohol.  Expires in 6 months and must be used on a one-time visit.  Bookings must be made through John Palmer Art.  Retail: $800.  Minimum Bid: $450.
16.  A fabulous $400 tab at Ciao Bello.  Includes tip, tax and alcohol. Expires in 6 months and must be used on a one-time visit. Bookings must be made through John Palmer Art. Retail: $400. Minimum Bid: $200.
17.  Carnivale 24 x 24 inches on wood.  Palmer's Carnivale style was inspired by his travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina during 2007. Retail: $4,600. Minimum Bid: $1,600.
18.  Two Carnivale 18 x 18 inch pieces on wood. Palmer's Carnivale style was inspired by his travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina during 2007. Retail: $5,400. Minimum Bid: $2,000.
19.  Equestrian 46 x 40 inches.  Since his childhood, Palmer has been inspired by the beauty and strength of horses. Retail: $9,600. Minimum Bid: $2,500.

As you can tell, you are in for some amazing holiday deals.  If you are unable to attend, but you would like me to send you a photograph of the item and you would like to put in a "remote" bid, please e-mail me as soon as possible at Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com.  I can check this e-mail up until approximately 30 minutes before the event.

John and I hope to see you tomorrow!!

Crockpot

Do y'all watch that show Millionaire Matchmaker?  I do.  I love it.  I thought the reunion episodes were particularly hilarious and I thought that Patty handled herself as well as she possibly could.  If you watch the show, you know that Patty has a million little expressions to explain the relationships between the sexes and the laws of attraction.  Well, on one of the reunion shows she stated another classic.  She was describing men versus women and their ability to fall in love during a certain period of time.  She said, "Men are microwaves, women are crockpots."  I thought the analogy was semi-brilliant and I have no clue if she's quoting someone or some book, but, nevertheless I thought it was fabulous.  This introductory story serves nothing more than to let you know how much I love cooking in a crockpot during the time of year.  Do y'all?  It's like so crazy-rewarding when you get it all-assembled in the mid-morning and then let it simmer all day before you devour it in the early evening.  Monday I made some delicious chili and today I'm making chicken and vegetable stew.  It's stocked with so many veggies--it's going to be unbelievable.  It's going to be perfect for tonight too--as we're hosting a fun private-event cocktail party from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.--so this thing will have been brewing for close to 10 hours.  As I've mentioned online--tonight's event does feature a small but totally spectacular silent auction.  I'm proud to say that I had all items organized to perfection with the bid sheets in place no later than 6:00 p.m. yesterday.  Today, John is completing the finishing touches: making sure the spotlights hit the items, making the corporate signage to welcome the guests, organizing the archives and coat-check (a first for us...) and setting up the bar area.  We're expecting a little less than 150 guests tonight to the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio--and so it shoud be a semi-packed and fun-filled evening.  All we have to do tomorrow is get the gallery ready for Sunday's Holiday Cheer Party!!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Holiday Cheer Party this Sunday, December 11, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                          
                                                                      Crockpot 

4.5

I've lost 4.5 pounds in four days.  At the end of my 11-day detox stint, fingers crossed, I've give you my recipe for losing a little weight quickly without going to extreme measures.  Well, I take that back...if you consider cutting out alcohol an extreme measure...then, this process might not be for you.  Anyway, I've entered into a little friendly weight loss competition with my brother prior to our early family Christmas get-together on the weekend of the 16th.  It's nothing hardcore and to my knowledge there's not even a prize.  I've actually just meaning to drop a few ever since I've gotten off my workout regime in the last month or so.  Since I abhor the gym, when the weather begins to shift and get cold I find it so hard to keep up with my cardio.  But, I've hit the gym religiously since last weekend, cut out the booze (among other things...) and the pounds seem to be melting away.  At least, so far so good.  Meanwhile, John has been enjoying a great number of home-cooked, healthy and delicious meals since the weekend.  It's actually so much more fun to cook.  I mean, I adore going out during the week, taking a break from the gallery, picking up dinner and going for a drink--but, those Calories and dollars really add up in the big picture.  This little health kick does have a firm end date--Friday, December 16, 2011.  On that date I'll be home in Clemson with my family--and, I'm sure, the contest will then be reversed and my brother and I will then see who can pack on the most weight in 3 days.  Now, that, to me, is a fun competition...

In the world of our art business, we're chugging away.  John has been trying to finalize a particularly detailed Faces piece all morning.  It's detailed because it has a great number of actual faces.  It's been one of his most challenging projects thus far, a fact that the lovely collector and our friend likes to point out jokingly to him on a regular basis.  We also have a ton of great pieces leaving our art gallery today.  There are two that I'd like to mention that we're particularly proud to have placed.  First is the 70" x 40" vibrant Self-Portrait of John that was used as one of our Art Toronto Catalogue images.  We've traveled around the world with this painting--and are so proud of it, and are even more thrilled that it will be finding a happy and fun home.  The next is a little different--not a painting.  If you've been to the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio over the last few years, you've most likely noticed our gorgeous couture Club Chairs.  These hand-made leather chairs are backed with original John Ross Palmer paintings on canvas.  These were originally created for sale, but, because they didn't move quickly (a surprise to us because they are so beautiful), we've used them as a fantastic addition and sitting area in our Great Room.  Well, during our Afternoon of Escapism, the set of four were acquired by a couple that had been eyeing them for a long time.  Again, it makes us so pleased to know that they'll now reside in a fantastic space, but, gosh I will miss their beauty and comfort! 

I must admit that we're almost fully in the Christmas spirit here at 1218.  The holiday music is blasting and John has some great holiday deco placed here and there.  He's even wrapped our (small) oak tree in the front of our home with a plethora of gorgeous white lights.  We hope to see you here soon!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Holiday Cheer Party this Sunday, December 11, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                      
                                                  Self-Portrait by Artist John Ross Palmer

Freezing

It is just crazy-cold in Houston!  I went outside the morning to get the paper and could not believe how much the temperature has dropped over the past several days.  Although I don't know if it's predicted, it really feels like snow weather to me.  We get snow so rarely here in Houston--it would be magical to have just a little of it during this holiday season.  But, after typing this post I'm sure the weather will soon be back in the mid 80's and we'll all have to replace our coats and sweaters with shorts and T-shirts.  John has two art installations today while Suzie and I are holding down the fort at the art gallery.  I've been doing my best to catch up on online updates: Press Releases, Calendar, Current News and of course the John Palmer Art Blog.  Suzie's had the mammoth task of updating our Blog binder and the CD inventory.  The CD inventory upkeep has been on a major hiatus because our current storage units have become full to capacity and I've only now found a new one.  And, by storage unit, I mean a shoebox.  We have a CAMH event this evening that I might have to attend solo if John needs to work on various projects.  I know I sound like a broken-record, but, he's seriously got them lined up, with Deadlines, and so during this season of rejoicing and merriment he'll also be maintaining his status as The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business.  One thing that I'm actually really looking forward to is a quick trip we've just booked to Dallas for the two days after Christmas.  John needed just over 400 Miles to keep his Elite status for 2012--so, we found $98 tickets to the Big D to earn them and enjoy a very brief holiday vacay before the New Year.  It's literally been ages since we've been to Dallas--and, I know the town won't be hopping on a Monday and Tuesday night, but, I really don't care because we've never had a bad time there.  Anyway, we have oodles of time and events to handle before that fun adventure--it'll just be a real treat once we push through everything.  I hope that you are all staying warm in this chilly weather.  With Jane next to me right now, I'm managing just fine.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Holiday Cheer Party this Sunday, December 11, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                
                                                                  Pottery Pedestals in the Great Room

Keeping the Ho in the Holidays

I do think it's kind of funny when people wear t-shirts and drink out of mugs that give a reminder to "Keep the Christ in Christmas."  I definitely understand the point that they are trying to convey--that Christmas is really all about the birth of the Baby Jesus and not the commercialized, pepper-spraying-during-Black-Friday hollow holiday that it has become.  But, I do think it's a little stupid.  I mean, you can't take the Christ out of Christmas or it just wouldn't be Christmas.  It would be mas.  What I like even better is when people like my brother say stuff like, Keep the Turkey in Thanksgiving!  Now, to me, that is superb on many levels.  First off, it's a clear jab at the "Chist in Christmas" folks.  Second, I love turkey.  Third, it's really funny because the "word" Turkey is actually not present in the "word" Thanksgiving.  All around, I think it's a really funny saying.  I thought of a new one and put it as the title of today's John Palmer Art Blog.  At least, I Googled this and didn't really see it anywhere so I think it might be an original creation.  I'll take credit regardless.  To me, it is funny because it insinuates that it is proper to act like a slut during this festive time of year.  I think people do, kind of.  With all of the egg nog and holiday parties--it wouldn't surprise me if December rates high on the seasonal slut factor.  But, I wouldn't know about such things.  What I do know, however, is that one should be free to say no matter what phrase they like during this miraculous time of year--and, they should be proud and very comfortable doing so.  So, with that, I'd like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and, let you know that you are invited to our Holiday Cheer Party this Sunday, December 11, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard.  (It's all-inclusive.)

                                 
                                                                  Our Holiday Gift Shop

BCS

It was kind of an awful day yesterday for my College Football hopefuls.  The Coogs lost their first game, the Dawgs went down, OU got ripped apart and worst of all, Clemson won the ACC Championship--guaranteeing a birth into the Orange Bowl.  I'm now very curious where the Gamecocks will wind up in terms of Bowl Games.  Fingers crossed for something worthy of our team and great season.  Liberty Bowl or Music City Bowl...I don't think so.  Today John and I are looking forward to getting some work done around the house before going to a few holiday parties.  The first is the 10th annual fundraiser our friends Ginger & Gail host for Heifer International.  It's a very worthy cause and so we always look forward to chipping in what we can.  Next, we'll pop over to Lee and Brett's holiday party.  It should be a blast and I'm sure we'll see a ton of folks that we know.  Finally, we'll get together with our friends Brad & Diana for a glass of wine here at the gallery.  Before all of this gets kicked off, I do plan on getting my ducks in a row for the week ahead.  Like I mentioned in the last John Palmer Art Blog post--we got a ton finished last week, but, there are still many more details to execute for upcoming events.  We're hosting a private corporate event on Friday night here at the gallery that will feature a VIP silent auction.  That situation always entails a good amount of work: selecting the items, crafting the bid sheets, organizing the display to perfection, etc.  Thankfully I'll be able to use templates that I've used in the past to give me a jump on the logistics of it all.  I know I've mentioned this several times online and just added the event to the John Palmer Art online Calendar, but Save the Date for the fabulous John Ross Palmer Art Auction at F Bar Houston--you'll find all of the fabulous details in the image below!

                                 
                                                                    Don't Miss This!

Mailers and Deadlines

When looking back at our December last year, it's really strange to see how busy we are now at this time of year.  In addition to trying to get prepared for the Los Angeles Art Show in January, John is still working on a solid number of Faces pieces.  We're hosting two large events here at the gallery and one large art auction at F Bar Houston on the evening of Thursday, December 15th.  All of this amounts to lots of work and preparation--and the meeting of my favorite thing, Deadlines.  Two for LA were significant today--first off our Catalogue images and information had to be submitted.  I take a great deal of time insuring that this is timely and goes off without a hitch.  By noon, it was finished.  We put such a great amount of emphasis and thought into our Catalogue pieces and presentation--for this fair we've even purchased an additional page to highlight our gallery and programming.  I'm not quite sure if I've mentioned this on the John Palmer Art Blog before, but, Congratulations to Escapist Artists Kelley Devine and Nubia Gala-Seibert for having your artwork selected to be included next to J.P.'s in the LA Catalogue!  Next,  I had to put together our Media Relations packet for the art fair.  The publicist for the fair seeks information and images from each participating art gallery and then feeds on the information to Los Angeles Media Outlets.  To be honest, I think I work harder on this aspect of fair-readiness than any other.  I just feel so strongly that our programming, strength of art and geniune "story" that is tied to John's Art Movement of Escapism is so crazy compelling it would be the ideal Headline for any major news outlet.  This time, I sent a personal letter to the publicist, including Escapism 2010 and 2011 Catalogues, the DVD of the inaurugal escapists, the 2012 Escapist Application, a disk with images from all seven artists we're showing, a professional Promo Card and a Headshot of his highness.  I mean, does anyone else send in such a comprehensive package?  I'm convinced that there is absolutely no way that could be possible.  Somehow in the midst of all of this, we've managed to send out a mass mailer related to our Holiday Cheer Party (hosted here at the art gallery on Sunday, December 11, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) and a VIP mailer to select collectors regarding our participation in LA and our encouragement for them to attend.

After all of the hardwork, we are crazy-looking-forward to a celebratory dinner tonight with FCC Member Susan Catlett and her beau Kirk at Tony's to congratulate her on writing the winning First Class Club Essay Contest this year.  I can't wait to get dressed up and have that first very filthy, dirty martini.  I'm betting that J.P. will start off with a scotch and I'm positive that we'll finish up with a souffle.  It's been ages since we've enjoyed a meal at Tony's and so now if you'll excuse me I have to go and get beautiful...everyone have a fabulous weekend!

                            
                                                              John Ross Palmer at Tony's

Jan & Christine

Well, the suspense and agony of the Faces Cover Competition has finally concluded.  Moments after 5:00 p.m. CST, I announced that Mr. & Mrs. Jan Spin's portrait will grace the cover of John's next book, Faces.  Coming from nearly a 100 "Like" deficit in the last day of competition, Miss Sylvie Lanier of Atlanta, Georgia finished an incredibly close second place.  The final "Like" tally as of the close of voting was 233 for Jan & Christine and 223 for Sylvie.  I must give huge thanks to all of our five competitors, but, especially to Jan, Christine, Carrie and Whit for hyping up the contest and John's Faces project much greater than I could have ever expected.  Guys, these folks truly went to the mat for their portraits.  I'm aware of mass e-mails, texting relatives, sharing the image unabashedly in an overall frenzy to try and finish in First Place.  It's no secret that I love to orchestrate this type of competition--and it went off better than I could have ever imagined.  Because my blood pressure is now at an all-time high and I just really need to get off the computer and have a drink, the John Palmer Art Blog will conclude its November posting by showing you an image of the Cover Portrait as well as the photograph that inspired its creation.  Christine wrote to her friends to encourage their votes, "The photograph that John used for inspiration was taken while on a hike in Vancouver in 2008.  Jan and I had reached the apex of the trail on a beautiful sunny day and took a cheeky snapshot of our accomplishment.  I never would have thought that such an impulsive moment would one day memoralized forever."  Jan & Christine, John and I give you a huge CONGRATULATIONS, for many reasons.  We could never thank you enough for all of your support!

         
              Jan & Christine by John Ross Palmer                                   Jan & Christine, Vancouver 2008

One More Day

Well Friends, there is just one more day remaining in the Faces Cover Contest we are running on Facebook.  You'll need to Like the image you want to grace the cover no later than 5:00 p.m. CST, Tomorrow, Wednesday, November 30, 2011.  You can view the Facebook album and scroll through the five options by clicking here.  Since this friendly contest has been going for a few weeks, I've thoroughly enjoyed watching the "votes" roll in and the lead change, sometimes quite dramatically.  I don't know what our contestants have in store for tomorrow, but, I would not be surprised if we witnessed a last day attempt-for-victory by one or more of the art collectors that are participating.  I will tell you in all honesty, as the producer of the Faces Book, John and I will be thrilled if any one of Helena, Jan & Christine, Mrs. Frier, Sylvie or Terry wind up as the prestigious Cover Person(s).  Each piece of art is so compelling in its own right--we and the readers and enthusiasts of the Faces Book should all most certainly be pleased.  At 5:00 p.m. CST tomorrow, I will quickly scroll through the five options and then moments later announce the winner via the John Ross Palmer Artist Page on Facebook.  I've run a number of silly games through our Facebook Page before, but, never one that has garnered so much attention and has so much at stake.  And, I would like to sincerely thank the participants and those who have voted and Shared your favorite image to bring attention to John's amazing commission series this year. T.H.W.M.I.T.A.B. has had a totally hectic one.  He was at Staples in the wee hours of the morning, met with a new pet portrait collector mid-morning, had an existing pet portrait collector come in for a sketch viewing, went to F Bar to continue to work on the holiday decorations before he'll come back to the gallery to work on a great number of existing projects.  Whew.  Send good energy to the resident art genius--he's got them stacked up like no other and must deal with Deadline after Deadline--and at the same time making sure each artistic effort is executed to praise and perfection.  It's by no means an easy task, but, sometimes he always manages to deliver.

                             
                                                Working Away (During Warmer Weather)

Lady Jane

Everyone please send good energy to Lady Jane Palmer.  She's totally fine...it's just since Thanksgiving she's had a small lump underneath her jaw.  I took her to the vet today and she thinks it's a minor infection and/or a tooth condition that we'll just need to have addressed.  After Bennett's passing, J.P. and I are on "high alert" on this situation--so thanks for your prayers for Jane.  I am also not quite sure if I've announced this on the John Palmer Art Blog before, but, in late December or early January Jane is going to be getting a baby brother!  Our breeder, only days before Thanksgiving, sent me a picture of the gorgeous "all black and white" English Pointer litter.  7 Boys and 5 Girls.  We've decided in advance that his name will be Bobby.  Not only is it upbeat and quite regal, it goes hand-in-hand with Jane being a familial name--Uncle Bobby is my mom's brother and Jane is her sister.  John and I have both had full days today.  For me, in addition to taking care of the Lady, I picked up the Los Angeles Art Show Catalogue piece of Nubia Gala-Seibert.  That's right--here's another announcement!  Congratulations to 2010 Escapist Kelley Devine and 2011 Escapist Nubia Gala-Seibert for having your works selected to be included in the Catalogue of the prestigious 2012 Los Angeles Art Show!  John and I had an incredible difficult decision as I brought back to our art gallery so many strong image options, but, two in particular stood out to us and they will grace the 2012 Catalogue along with one from the Founder of Escapism, Artist John Ross Palmer.  Tomorrow at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio, Photographer Rick Wells will shoot our Catalogue pieces as well as a number of completed Faces portraits.  I'll then go through the motions of submitting the images via an online portal to be included in the Catalogue.  For this fair, they only provide one page complementary.  But, the fee is nominal for a second page, additional verbiage and two more images--so we've pulled the trigger to feature our art gallery in a much more VIP fashion.  Having said this, I need to hang it up from the laptop to focus on John, Jane, dinner and a second scotch--not necessarily in that order.  Have a great week guys!

                                
                                                           Jane's Place of Honor

A Touch Under the Weather

I really haven't been feeling that hot today.  I think with the holiday indulging, travel and shift in weather in Houston--my body just got a little overloaded.  I managed through our Open Studio just fine but afterwards needed to lay down and watch some Pretty Woman before coming back to my desk and getting prepared for the work week ahead.  There are a million things to do, and, the "To Work On" e-mail list for Amanda is pretty comprehensive.  Poor thing, I just sent her a text message so she would be prepared when she logged onto her Outlook first thing Monday Morning.  In terms of calendared appointments, John's schedule during the week ahead doesn't appear too tough.  However, he still is working on the mural at Ciao Bello and I think he has a few final tweaks to the holiday decorations at F Bar Houston.  Y'all really must check these places out--his signature touch on their establishments is nothing less than extraordinary.  In the BIG picture, I'm still working on finalizing the publication of the Faces Book.  Just so you know, because there are still some outstanding portraits for the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business to complete--there is literally no way that this book will be released before January of 2012.  I always have a goal to complete the book during the same year as the art series creation, but, delaying the book just a tad to make it more dynamic will always win over making a less-than-superior book just to try and complete it for the holidays.  I sincerely hope that you guys all had an amazing Thanksgiving holiday.  I know it was a little less-than-ideal for Clemson fans, but, for us Gamecocks, that just puts a big smile on our Faces.

                            
                               Artist John Ross Palmer Works on the Original Mural at Ciao Bello

Beat Clemson

Well, today is the big day.  It's the only game of the season that really matters.  Of course I'm talking about South Carolina versus Clemson.  Both teams have had wonderful seasons.  It's in Columbia and that might give us a small edge, but, after a horrible loss to State last weekend I know that the Tigers will be hungry for a win.  Thankfully John and I will be home in plenty of time to tune in.  Right now I'm typing the John Palmer Art Blog from the airport in Greensboro, NC.  Thanksgiving was glorious.  As predicted, we ate too much, drank too much, slept a great deal and yelled a lot.  It was perfect.  One of the real highlights was celebrating Nana's 90th birthday on Wednesday evening.  She was overjoyed and surprised and we gave her some amazing gifts.  John and I presented her with a necklace and matching bracelet that I had purchased for her at the Palace of Versailles.  She went there with my mom and my uncle in 1990--and I knew it was one of her favorite places on Earth.  Giving gifts is really so much better than receiving gifts, don't you think?  Once we get home, we will have some work to perform.  John must re-hang the art in the bungalow before we host our November Open Studio on Sunday the 27th, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 1218 Heights Boulevard.  I do hope we'll have some fun attendees because I'd love to hear about how everyone spent their Turkey Day.  The following week will be, of course, busy, but it's very welcomed during this time of year.  We were soooo slow last December and so this is a very nice change.  I think some folks might end today's blog by saying that they just want the game tonight to be safe and fun and hope that the best team would win.  I, on the other hand, hope we beat the hell out of Clemson and tear the goalposts down baby!

                                     
                                                          Marshall and Ann Marshall

Brian Janet & Zin

Today's John Palmer Art Blog is going to have to be short, but, sweet.  As you know, for a fourth consecutive year, The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business has been selected to design the holiday window at Houston's legendary Neiman Marcus at the Galleria.  This year, guys, he knocked it totally out of the ballpark.  Please take a look at the photos I've uploaded to Facebook by clicking here.  This year's vibrant window, provided courtesy of Kanaly Trust, is entitled Brian, Janet & Zin's Holiday Bliss.  Brian and Janet are elite members of John's First Class Club, and, Zin is their world champion Jack Russell Terrier and star of 2010's Jane & Co. Book.  The vibrant window is aptly named because of the fun and inspiration that they have brought into our lives this year--even though they have personally dealt with a great deal.  Brian, Janet & Zin, we too have "no words."

                          
                                                     Valet at Neiman's to see this Masterpiece!

Turkey Day

I'm so crazy ready for Thanksgiving, are you?  This year J.P. and I will both be heading to Greensboro, North Carolina to be with my family and my grandmother plus my aunt, uncle and cousins.  It's been a number of years since John has been able to attend and so he's especially thrilled.  Our Thanksgiving is pretty standard.  We eat too much, drink way too much, watch a great deal of television, play games, yell at each other and make fun of everyone especially ourselves and politicians.  It's always extremely uplifting to be there.  If it's cold enough we'll have a fire--something John especially adores because that's so rarely possible here on the Gulf Coast of Texas.  The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business has been earning his keep--hardcore.  In addition to continuing to work on the mural at Ciao Bello, he's been getting the holiday decorations prepped for F Bar and designing the Neiman Marcus holiday window.  Today, he starts at F Bar to try and get as much of the deco installed as possible before going back to Neiman's at 4:00 p.m.  There is a real surprise aspect to the Neiman's display this year that I'm sure will thrill-to-death one of our great friends and art collectors.  This person happens to be a "regular" reader of the John Palmer Art Blog--and so, I just can't wait for her to see it in place.  In the middle of these two major Houston art installations, John is now meeting with a young lady and her mom here at the art gallery to talk about following your passion in life--and that it is very possible to be an artist as a "grown up."  Little things like this are truly the highpoints of our "jobs."  It we can convince even one person to follow their passion--then I feel that we achieved a major success.  I apologize about my failure to post the John Palmer Art Blog over the weekend.  There is literally no good excuse--other than being consumed with college football and taking care of business before we leave town.  There are still mountains of work to be done, and, I know that I must get it accomplished before Wednesday.  My mother doesn't take it well when she sees us talking business during "her" time.  I think that's fair enough.  Everyone have a great holiday week!

                             
                                     Emerging Artist Sophia speaks with Artist John Ross Palmer

Bungalow

I spent a great deal of the day after lunch laying out pieces for John to re-hang the bungalow portion of the art gallery.  Because of a great number of projects, plus travel, it has been quite empty since the 2011 Esapist Artists removed their artwork after the Evening of Escapism.  The next time you come to the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio, I think you'll be pleased with the new art aesthetic.  The pieces I've selected to show are diverse, and, it's very likely that you have not seen them before because they've been in Arizona for at least several years.  There are some real jewels and I'm confident and hopeful that some of them will achieve new homes during this holiday season.  I just got home from a delicious late lunch at Ciao Bello where I joined J.P. and Brady--and then watched John continue to work on the mural expansion.  It's looking so gorgeous and is well on its way to completion.  John's had a long one...starting the day with the team from F Bar Houston buying holiday decorations.  He's crazy-excited about partnering with them and turning their boutique club into a seasonal extravaganza.  He begins work tomorrow with the intention that a great portion will be completed before Turkey Day--and the remainder shortly upon our return from North Carolina.  John will have a busy weekend...showing his skills by outfitting F Bar as well as the holiday window at Houston's Neiman Marcus.  John has the huge honor of being selected for the fourth consecutive year to showcase his art in their legendary storefront.  I know he'll be running on fumes by the time we get to see my family in Greensboro, NC--but that will make the holiday that much sweeter and relaxing.  I hope that you all are looking forward to an amazing weekend.  Send some good energy towards the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business.  He'll need it, but, there's no doubt that he'll deliver.

                     
                                                                Ready to Hang!

Faces Cover Contest

We have been so pleased with the progression of the Faces Portrait and Book Project--words cannot even express how proud we are of all of the unique portraits that John has created during 2011.  As you know, he has a handful of projects to complete, but, in order to publish the book in a timely fashion, I must have my ducks in a row with all aspects of the book publication process so I'll be able to deliver the text, images and overall content of the book to the publisher just as soon as that last piece is photographed professionally.  For quite some time now, John and I have been in dicussions about which portrait would be best suited to make the cover of the book.  After much debate, we decided that we could not make that decision.  Therefore, we short-listed just five of the pieces that we thought were quite dynamic, and, after asking the permission of the art collector, have put them up for an online Facebook Competition.  Click here so that you can see the album on Facebook.  Then, of the five options: Terry, Sylvie, Jan & Christine, Mrs. Frier and Helena, please "Like" the one that you feel would be the best piece to be on the cover of our next published book, Faces.  The option that has the most "Likes"  as of 5:00 p.m. CST on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 will grace the cover of Faces.  Just after starting the contest this afternoon, Miss Sylvie of Atlanta, Georgia is the current front-runner.  But, you never know...sometimes these contests take on a life of their own after the friends and family of the contestants begin to get serious about promoting their favorite option!  So, if you like one of the five the best, click on that "Share" Button to your heart's contest to rally your favorite contestant on to victory.  I must admit, I'm a serious sucker for a Facebook competition.  Thanks so much to all of the competitors--you are all great sports to take part in this fun game, and, Good Luck!

                                
                                                                Faces

Deadlines

Back

I'm back.  Sorry for  my failure to post the John Palmer Art Blog over the long weekend.  With the drive to Columbia on Friday morning, the need to get to the tailgate spot early on Saturday for a Noon game and then a pretty atrocious hangover on Sunday, I just wasn't on my A-game.  But, now with an hour before my flight back to Houston, I've got some quiet time to get you caught up on the whirlwind life of Artist John Ross Palmer.  Like I told you, he's been in Phoenix with his buddy Jim.  At least from the pictures, their hotel, the Valley Ho, looked totally amazing.  The reason he was in Phoenix was to retrieve his artwork from the gallery that represented him in Scottsdale.  Again, by reading the text messages I got regarding the pick-up, everything was flawless and went off without a hitch.  Our professional shipper will now take responsibility for getting the great number of art pieces back to our art gallery in Houston.  I honestly can't wait to see some of the treasures that return--John and I must talk but I think we might consider throwing a little "Open the Crate" party similar to the one we orchestrated after the big shipment came home from Art Chicago early this May.  But, with an approaching and quite hectic holiday schedule, we'll just have to see if we can manage it.  As per usual, to ease my mind and be able to start the day fresh tomorrow, I already have a substantial To Do List ready for me in my John Palmer Art journal.  The main thing will be to stay on top of the timely publication of the Faces book.  I'm now at the mercy of the collectors who are sending me their Questionnaires--so many thanks to those of you who have already returned those to us!  I've now got about 30 minutes unitl boarding and so I might try and grab one beer or cocktail before take off.  Everyone have a super week!

                             
                                             2011 University of South Carolina Homecoming Parade

GSP

Gift Shop

It's official.  The John Palmer Art Gift Shop is now open for business here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!  The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business personally painted the walls, built the shelves, stocked and decorated it to perfection.  This way, anyone that visits the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio can walk away with a gorgeous art memento--all of which give a true sense of owning a John Palmer.  Items include original John Ross Palmer pottery, high-quality limited edition art prints, books, DVDs and small monoprints created on Skopelos Island, Greece.  By early next week, our e-mail database will be receiving a promotional announcement about the opening of the Gift Shop--with a holiday incentive to receive 15% off of anything purchased in the John Palmer Art Gift Shop prior to December 15, 2011!  I must be honest with you, the running of the Gift Shop, at least for now, will not sustain the business of John Palmer Art.  We still must promote and sell John's original artwork to make our ends meet.  But, for years we've tried to develop a concept of making available smaller-ticket-yet-still-exceptional items to the general public.  And, since I know that many of you have not started your holiday shopping here in Houston, I encourage you to please call us here at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio at 713-861-6726 to see John's latest pieces and peruse our brand new Gift Shop.  I know that you'll find the absolute perfect holiday treat for your best friend, loved one, colleague or self!

                                 
                                                                      Open for Business!

Los Angeles

I know that I've already made this announcement on Facebook, but, I'm thrilled to also give notice here on the John Palmer Art Blog that our gallery has been accepted as an exhibitor at the prestigious Los Angeles Art Show, January 18-22 in sunny California.  This is our first time both applying and being accepted at this time-honored international art fair on the West Coast--and, needless to say, we are overwhelmed and so honored with the opportunity.  As with any international art fair, we'll have mountains of work ahead of us in terms of logistics, preparation and promotion.  However, after years of going to Art Chicago in May, John and I are much more confident about our ability for a successful showing in California.  I'm actually terribly excited personally because I've never been to L.A.  During my last year of law school, John and I did take a fabulous trip to San Francisco and Napa Valley--but to date that's been my only trip to California.  And, honestly, I'm not expecting this one to be as magical as that journey back in 2005.  It's different when you are working for days upon days at an art show.  Yes, it can be rewarding on many levels...but I seriously doubt it will be as fun and care-free as hopping from vineyard to vineyard as we did on our last trip out West.  But, you never know...In the weeks to come, we'll be promoting the event heavily to our collectors and doing our best to use our Los Angeles connections to insure for a successful showing.  Wish us luck--this one could be big for John Palmer Fine Art!

        
                                                                              Join us in January!

A Place of Worship

Chocolatina

Sometimes a picture says it all.  Guys, it was absolutely wonderful!

                          
                                                           New York City Wedding, 11.5.11

Wedding Day

It's a gorgeous, crisp and cool day in NYC.  We've slept in, had a huge breakfast and then did a little shopping before returning to the Dream to rest and get ready for our 4 o'clock ceremony.  I'm listening to Lady Gaga on Pandora and sipping champagne as J.P. is arranging some flowers to set out at the Stonewall Inn for our service and reception.  I really can't wait to get there and see which friends are able to be there to help us celebrate.  Even it's a crowd of ten or so--I'll be over-the-moon excited to connect with old buddies, tell stories and run up a high bar tab.  After the reception, we'll plan to watch the Gamecocks and hopefully cheer them on to a victory over Arkansas.  Thanks to all of you for your well wishes on Facebook and in text messages and voicemails.  I know that so many of you are here in spirit, and, believe me, we can feel it.  Today's John Palmer Art Blog is dedicated to the Great State of New York.  Thank you for having us, and, for accepting us.

                                
                                             Our First Time Down the Aisle, October 2007

NYC

Yesterday was amazing.  Our flight was on time, easy and arrived in the big city early.  We had the bags in a flash and then took a car to our hotel.  We are staying at the Dream Downtown--totally gorgeous.  The lobby alone is a crazy showstopper.  Because our room wasn't quite ready--and because the Manhatten Clerk's Office closes at 3:45 p.m., we dashed over there to get our Marriage License.  I had pre-registered online (saving a bunch of time)...and so, within minutes we had our license.  We've done this many times now but I just can't tell you how both romantic and empowering it is for John and me to have our hands on this formal and legal recognition of our relationship.  The amazing thing is, we have nothing planned today.  We'll, I do have one surprise up my sleeves for you guys...but, more on that later.  I think we'll just eat, drink, explore...and do a little shopping.  I'm such a sucker for Barney's New York New York--I might just have to pop in there and check out some jeans.  I justify their insanely high price because I literally wear them like every day for over a year.  We hear that it's freezing in Houston.  This makes me smile because the weather here is really quite mild and yesterday was gorgeous.  I can't wait for our wedding tomorrow!  Y'all stay tuned for fun photos!

                                           
                                           Artist John Ross Palmer at the Clerk's Office

Mr. B

Thanks to all of you for your kind words, texts and comments about Bennett's passing.  God he was the best.  If you knew him, you'd remember him for his dashing good looks, first class snuggling ability and his constant desire to be close to you (and sometimes nibble on your ear).  I think I might be officially all cried out, and so, now I can just reflect back on his fun and love-filled 13-year-old life.

It's hard to believe that John and I leave for New York City tomorrow!  Considering some of the tough stuff we've been dealing with--we're very ripe for a little rest and therapy.  We will be taking our wedding vows at the historic Stonewall Inn--the birthplace of the modern day gay rights movement.  While this location won't be glamorous, what it lacks it glitz it will most definitely be matched by its historical significance.  Please do look for some sweet and funny pictures on Facebook.  If this one comes even close to our last trip to the Big Apple then you'll be in for a real treat!

                                    
                                                                          Love Ya Bennett!!

All in Order

Monday

Happy Halloween everyone!  We've been dealing with a lot here at the gallery so I apologize for my lack of "daily-updating" the John Palmer Art Blog.  Our eldest, Bennett, is not doing so well.  I would appreciate your kind thoughts, prayers and good energy to be sent his way.  I'll be back soon.

Date Night

After a long week, J.P. and I are going out for a delicious meal together.  I think I'll be starting off with a filthy, dirty martini.  I can just feel that vodka going through my veins and babe I can't wait.  We'll have a really fun weekend.  We go for an art installation up in Conroe on Saturday afternoon and then it's back to the Heights to get ready for a massive Halloween bash.  This party is totally legendary in our neighborhood and so it will be wonderful to catch up with old friends.  I hope you'll enjoy our costumes.  I did borrow the idea from a friend, but, I think it might be kind of epic.  I don't have to wear much of anything so my insides are all a-flutter about that.  John, meanwhile, is very happy and content that he'll be fully clothed--the way he likes it (in public).  Sunday we have our Open Studio and closing reception for the 2011 Escapist Artists.  Sadly, 2011 Escapist Artist Zachary Y. Vasquez will not be able to join us.  He and his partner David will be touring around Tokyo.  Zak, John and I would like to sincerely applaud you.  So soon after "graduation" from the mentorship program, you clearly have defeated the stereotype of the struggling artist.  No in all seriousness, we're crazy jealous and hate you guys.  Ok ok teasing on that part too.  Anyway, it will be a bit sad to see all of these pieces leave our home and art gallery.  Seriously, we'd much prefer for them to leave and go to new collector's homes.  So, I hope that you will join us on Sunday and help us in that regard!  Have a Happy Weekend!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer October Open Studio & the 2011 Escapist Artist Closing Reception this Sunday, October 30, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio at 1218 Heights Boulevard.

                                
                                                                          All Grown Up!

Zacation

Tonight J.P. and I are going to a function at the Hotel Za Za and we've decided to just crash there.  I surprised John with this news when I went for a late lunch with him after he finished painting the mural addition at Ciao Bello.  Well, he's definitely not "finished"--I was just referring to the end of his Thursday live painting shift.  It's actually been kind of a long day.  I woke early to push some papers off of my desk before buying two dozen donuts and taking them to my former law firm.  It was not just a pure gesture of kindness--I needed a favor.  In all of those years of law school and actually being a divorce litigator, I never learned how to send a Certified Letter.  So, I bribed my old colleagues with sweets and they took care of it for me.  God love them.  Afterwards, I went to Male Uwear to drop off a signed copy of The Art of Meaningful Living to be included in their holiday raffle prize.  Next, I spent a lot of hours at my desk planning for New York City and making sure that all of our details were in order.  Gosh I seriously cannot wait.  Next weekend honestly could be a trip of a lifetime.  Stay tuned to Facebook because I know that the pictures will be epic.

John told me over lunch that he's having a glorious time painting the mural addition and interacting with new and cherished friends.  So many folks have shown up to support him--it's just been a total pleasure and relaxing for him.  You might remember, the initial mural at Ciao Bello--at least at first, was rushed and created mainly during the wee hours of the night.  John tells me that this experience is so much different--in a good way.  He's able to take his time, chat with guests to the restaurant and really spend time on the new creation.  He's on Cloud 9 and I salute Mr. and Mrs. Vallone for giving him this amazing opportunity.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer October Open Studio & the 2011 Escapist Artist Closing Reception this Sunday, October 30, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio at 1218 Heights Boulevard.

I have no pictures as The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business borrowed by camera!

Long Day

Tough stuff. Rewarding Moments. I'll be back tomorrow for a fabulous John Palmer Art Blog!

The Highlight of the Day

It was having a late lunch with my man at Ciao Bello.  Even though he didn't have a pre-set painting time today, he spent a few hours expanding the mural on the enclosed patio.  I spent most of the morning working on a secret project, which, is why, today's John Palmer Art Blog won't be that long because it's a secret.  John and I prepped for a late afternoon teleconference which, in effect, didn't actually occur--bringing me to the point of seizure.  But, J.P. solved it all with a glass of wine.  Tonight, I'll be going solo to a CAMH Collector's Circle event at the University of Houston.  I'm definitely looking forward to soaking up some fabulous art after a long one.  Cheers guys!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer October Open Studio & the 2011 Escapist Artist Closing Reception this Sunday, October 30, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio at 1218 Heights Boulevard.

                                   
                                                                       Vibrant Mural Expansion

Ciao Bello

Today, J.P. started on the expansion of the mural on the enclosed patio at Ciao Bello!  I've sent out alerts on Facebook and a massive Constant Contact e-mail blast, but, in case you didn't know--he'll also be painting live at the restaurant at the following additional lunch times this week:

Wednesday, October 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

I am sure that he'll be up there more often than these pre-set times, but, if you make a reservation at Ciao Bello on one of those times--you'll be sure to see him.  Now, if you do go, please do me a big favor and snap photos and post them on Facebook or Twitter.  One of John's many gifts is that he doesn't mind creating in front of a crowd--and, in fact, it sometimes gives him greater inspiration.  In addition to creating two separate Facebook invitations (this takes forever...), I've spent most of the day working on paperwork with Amanda.    I have to keep the substance of those projects under wraps for now, but, it is some terribly exciting stuff that I'll give you more details about once we know some more information.  I am very proud to say that I do now have in my possession a great number of fabulous photos from our Escapism weekend--that I'll most likely get to sharing online tomorrow--well, if I can finish up a few more things than it could happen later on this afternoon.  We were treated to have two exceptional photographers, Dalton DeHart and Paul Ladd, working at our weekend events and they really delivered with some amazing photographs.  Although it was just a little over a week ago--the photos brought back some amazing memories of a truly spectacular soiree.  I hope everyone's week is starting off great!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer October Open Studio & the 2011 Escapist Artist Closing Reception this Sunday, October 30, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio at 1218 Heights Boulevard.

                                 
            Artist John Ross Palmer with Mrs. Donna Vallone, Ryan Lindsay and the 2011 Vallone Award Winners
                                                    Photo Credit to Paul Ladd of Ladd Photography

ATX

My Friend Holly

D.W. Daniel High School Valedictorian.  Alpha Omicron Pi.  Phi Beta Kappa.  4.0 Graduate of the University of Georgia (And, just so you know, that University gives "A-'s").  Sphinx Club Member.  Received her MD from the University of San Francisco while at the same time receiving a Masters from the University of California at Berkeley.  Completed her Residency at Harvard University.  She also happens to be the sweetest person alive, kind, generous and absolutely hilarious.  She was my next door neighbor, date to the Senior Prom and my best friend.  And now, she's earned the highest title of all, Mother.  Congratulations Holly and Doannie we love you!  He's beautiful!

                                         
                                                                  Baby Tran

Gift Shop

As you know, the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio is constantly evolving.  I might have told you about this scenario many times before on the John Palmer Art Blog, but, it is worth repeating considering our new addition.  J.P. pretty much has free reign of all of the downstairs (Bungalow, Gallery & Archives) plus his Art Studio upstairs.  When it comes to our private living quarters, however, he's not allowed to make "adjustments" to things unless we talk about it and agree first.  I mean, that's fair, right?  So, many times over the course of the last three years, esp. when I was working at the law firm, I would come home and realize we now have a mural in our main hallway...or, a mural on the ceiling of our covered patio.  Of course, paintings and sculptures would always be moved around or replaced after an acquisition.  Beautiful madness.  Or, "organized chaos"  as Artist Francis Bacon would call it.  Well, the latest addition to the gallery is the Philip S. Ross Museum Gift Shop (see images below).  Philip S. Ross is John Ross Palmer's Great-Great-Grandfather.  Was a titan of the Canada Accounting industry.  John devoted the major part of the week prior to our Black Tie Gala making the store look unbelievably clean, chic and organized.  Inside you'll find original pottery pieces, books, Catalogues and some simply fabulous gift bags and wrapping options.  For a very long time, we've known that we must offer high quality but lower ticket items so that everyone that visits the gallery is capable of acquiring even a small gift or trinket to remember their special visit.  The next time you are at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio...please--don't forget to check it out.  I'm sure by that time John will have it looking even more fabulous than now!

        
                              Exterior                                                                  Gift Shop

                                     
                                                                  Interior

Details

After a huge event weekend, there is still plenty of work remaining to be completed.  Because our wireless device is sometimes unpredictable--transactions have to be run.  We have to determine how much each Escapist is owed and then get them paid.  Checks have to be cut for sound, servers and the tent service.  Delivery and installations have to be set on the gallery calendar.  Because a great number of new guests arrived at the gallery, we have to enter new individuals' names in our Constant Contact Database.  We have to send Thank You notes.  For those collectors that were unable to make it over the weekend, John or I reach out to them personally an extend an invitation for a private gallery tour.  Very very fortunately--we have Amanda and Suzie to help us accomplish a lot of these tasks in a rather quick period of time. 

Most of my day today has been devoted to adding products to our new Facebook Store and then putting an icon/link to the Store on almost all of the JohnPalmerArt.com pages.  Just look up on top of the John Palmer Art Blog.  Now you'll find links to the regular John Ross Palmer Artist Page on Facebook, our Twitter Page and our Facebook Store.  It's really exciting.  Up until now, you've only been able to purchase these items at our Houston Art Gallery.  So now, we can ship worldwide--and the purchase process is quick, simple and secure.  John has been talking a big game recently about we need to invest a lot more in our online presence.  I'm like, "Really, I think I've been saying that every day for like the last three years..."  No, he's just recently just been inspired by how we continue to benefit from all things related to the internet and social networking.  However, rest assured, we aren't turning into a "virtual"  gallery.  In fact, our space here at 1218 Heights Boulevard has never looked better.  The room in which we featured the 2010 Escapists has now been converted to a incredibly chic gift store (more details on that to come...) and, in general, the whole house is in top form.  When the space in which you live and work is looking good--it just makes you feel inspired and ready to conquer task after task.  And, that's just what we are doing.

                                      
                                                                        Flowers by John Ross Palmer

Dying

Tired that is.  Saturday was so amazing, fun and successful, but, completely draining.  It didn't help that I enjoyed lots of cocktails on Sunday--giving way to a very rough Monday morning.  But, I've pushed through and can now re-focus on new projects.  Since we are past our October gala--honestly for the remainder of the year I'll be devoting a tremendous amount of time to the Faces Portrait & Book project.  John has a handful of pieces to finish up--but I really need to get to work on the text and formatting so I can hopefully release it to the public prior to the end of the year.

I know you are dying to see pictures from this weekend.  Because things were so hectic greeting and hosting--I only have a handful.  However, we did have two professional photographers shooting so when I get the images from them you'll be the first to know.  John's enjoyed a much-needed day away from the gallery today, but, he is handling supper and so I'm sure that will be a real treat.  I hope everyone's week has started off well!

                                               
                                                                           Daytime Kofi

Equestrian Escapism

"My latest series reveals the marriage of two art styles, Escapism and Equestrian.  Escapism is my primary art style which is based on my philosophy that art is healing.  It aims to achieve peace in the observer and return their mind to a time of innocence and childhood bliss.  As a young man in Houston, Texas, my mother would take my four siblings and me riding in the country as an escape from adolescent pressures and urban life.  My Equestrian style is inspired by those fond memories of the beauty, elegance and strength of horses.  The union of these two styles came as natural, freeing and personally meaningful at this time of my life when the world's demands on me are vast.

Historically, my Escapism style often contained subtle realistic triggers such as numerals, arrows, clouds or a checker-board grid to ease the viewer into the powerful world of the abstract.  With Equestrian Escapism 2011, the "triggers" are the non-subtle presence of horses.  Often the horses in this series are larger-than-life, charging and appear to almost jump off of the panels.  It is an illustration of the confidence I have gained with my art and the furtherance of the evolution of Escapism.  While my early Escapism pieces sought to pull the viewer into their own quiet, personal world of thought and reflection, these new pieces take the process to the next level.  Through the inclusion of Equestrian imagery, the Escapism mindset is bolstered with the confidence to then share those inner thoughts, expressions and feelings to let the whole world know who you are in a confident and unapologetic manner."  John Ross Palmer

This is a friendly reminder for John Ross Palmer's Afternoon of Escapism, TOMORROW, Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                      
                                                                     Equestrian Escapism No. 4
                                                                         Artist John Ross Palmer
                                                                                 50" x 90"
                                                         Acrylic, collage, graphite, oil stick and enamel on wood.
                                                                                   2011                                                          

Zak

"For me, art is about beauty, contemplation and visceral emotional response.  I'm fascinated by the visual and tactile worlds and the emotional responses their elements invoke - the shadows of sculptures, frantic lines and curves, mixtures of media and materials, contrasting and converging mute to saturated colors.  All of these elements combine for me into holistic abstract pieces that without having any literal meaning still have a deep emotional resonance.  The work really becomes easily contemplative, which is the type of work that has always inspired me.  We step into the right brain, which a call to sense and feel, rather than to think."  Zachary Vasquez

Of the 2011 Escapist Artists, I would say at the beginning of the program he had the least experience in the professional art world.  For years, he had put his passion for art on hold to follow a more traditional career--working as a successful sales representative in the medical device arena.  However, what Zak lacked in studio time and gallery events he made up for immensely in raw talent.  When he delivered his two Escapism 2011 Catalogue pieces, Tawny Belly and Reflexionem Cuprum, I honestly remarked that I had never experienced artwork like this.  After a very time-consuming process, he creates a visually-spectacular piece that appears like a sculpture being presented on the wall of the art gallery.  They are bright--and like he mentions in his Artist Statement above--invoke a deep emotional resonance.  Just in this year alone, Zak has had a group Escapist Exhibit at Caroline Collective, achieved a very positive review by the Houston Press, been commissioned for a slew of art projects, launched a website, incorporated his art business and now will unveil new works at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio this weekend.  Zak, you've come a long way baby.  And, now, only the sky is the limit for you.

This is a friendly reminder for John Ross Palmer's Afternoon of Escapism on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                     
                                                               Artists John Ross Palmer and Zachary Vasquez

Raul

Nubia

"I derive great satisfaction to take the liberty to paint directly from my soul, without adhering to any rules, specific notions, agendas or trends.  This way, I can do it on my own terms and at my own pace.  I feel as if I am tapping from an Infinite Divine Fountain of Creativity which I believe is available to all.  I use almost anything that comes into my hands: spatulas, scrapers, brushes and sticks--literally anything.  I prefer to paint on the floor because I can communicate with my paintings from all angles, I feel a closer connection to the works."  Nubia Gala-Seibert

Nubia met John for the first time after going to see him paint live in the holiday window at Neimans Marcus last year.  She is an accomplished artist and has shown at galleries all over the globe, but, she was looking for someone for inspiration.  For many years she kept her art to herself and needed convincing that it was doing the world a disservice not to share it with everyone.  Of course, John told her all about the Escapist Mentorship Program, and, thank goodness she had the courage to apply.  It has been an absolute pleasure working with her and getting to know her this year.  One of my favorite memories of Nubia from this year occurred before her Grand Opening of her Art Studio in Old Katy.  She candidly admitted to John and me that she was very nervous that no one would attend.  We assured her that, well, we would attend.  And, we've hosted more than one event where absolutely no one showed up.  Of course, Nubia had dozens and dozens attend the amazing evening--including Houston's Consul for the Nation of Colombia.  Nobody showing up...please.  But it's Nubia's kindness and strong spirit that are her best attributes.  The pieces that she will be unveiling at this weekend's events are incredible, just like her.  I adore both of her Escapism 2011 Catalogue pieces, Gold Veins and Night Rhythm, for their stong use of Earth tones in combination with heavy texturing.  Guys, you don't want to miss this one...To get a Preview of Nubia and her amazing art, check out her YouTube Video by Clicking Here!

This is a friendly reminder for John Ross Palmer's Afternoon of Escapism on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                         
                                                                       Nubia and J.P.

Lazy Day

I didn't get much accomplished today.  I actually laid around quite a bit and caught up on some mindless VH1 television.  J.P. ran errands here and there and now he's going to grill us a steak for dinner.  In preparing for this weekend, I know the days ahead will be incredibly busy--so taking a mental health day today was probably the right thing to do.  Definitely stay tuned this week as I'll be telling you a lot more about the 2011 Escapist Artists that we'll be honoring this Saturday!

This is a friendly reminder for John Ross Palmer's Afternoon of Escapism on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                        
                                                                                  John, Zak, Raul & Nubia

Picture

                                       
                                                                    I Love Him to Death

Selena Gomez

So, it all happened like this...we've been listening to XM Radio Channel 2 The Hits all day.  I'm really kind of obsessed with this song Love Me Like a Love Song.  Having no clue who was the recording artist, I Googled to discover that it was Selena Gomez.  I've heard her name before, but, because I'm not 11, never really knew much about her.  Well, of course, she's totally fabulous and now dating Justin Bieber.  V.I.P.  Anyway, I enjoyed findering her on Facebook.  24 million people like her Page.  V.I.P.  Anyway, I noticed that her Page has a Store.  My mind immediately thought that this would only be allowed for total V.I.P.s like her, Gaga, Madonna, Prince, The Situation, etc.  But no!  After Googling, "How to Set up a Facebook Store" I found an simple and easy article that gave me the step-by-step instructions.  And now, as of about one hour ago, the John Ross Palmer Facebook Page has a store!!  Of course, the store is in its infancy, but, I do have one item for sale--a signed copy of The Art of Meaningful Living by Author Christopher Brown and Artist John Ross Palmer.  And, if you "Like" the Page, you get a 5% Discount.  To say I'm freaking out about this situation is a major understatement.  Next week I have our professional photographer coming by the art gallery to take professional photographs of all of our other merchandise: Books, Catalogues, DVDs, T-Shirts.  Right now I think the online store will feature lower ticket items as a test run, but, my mind is thinking big and I'm not opposed to offering John Ross Palmer original artwork online.  And, it will all be thanks to Selena Gomez.  V.I.P.

                                              
                                                                                    Now Available on Facebook!!

Event Evening

After I had business coaching in the morning, I spent a good part of the afternoon setting up the art gallery for a dinner this evening.  We're hosting a company's client appreciation party--so it should be great fun with many new faces to the gallery.  One of the most dynamic parts of the night is sure to be the manner in which the supper is being served--from a Food Truck.  Especially in Houston, the Food Truck concept of having, literally, meals available on wheels is tremendously popular.  I'm hoping for some fabulous photos and so look for me to share them on Facebook tomorrow.  After tonight, we actually have a pretty full day tomorrow before a busy and exciting weekend.  Tomorrow night we'll attend the VIP dinner hosted by Outreach United at Sycamore Heights that will then serve to kick off the 5th Annual Houston Coming Out Day Party the following afternoon.  I'm kind of curious to see if anyone actually uses the occasion to "come out"...like on a microphone--now that would be totally fabulous.  At least he or she would know for certain that their announcement would be greeted with thunderous applause.  But, of course, I think the theme is largely symbolic, and, will serve to raise a bunch of money for GLBT non-profits in need of funding.  There are a million things going on in Houston this weekend.  Bayou City Arts Festival.  Jungle.  Greek Festival.  Inhabitants of the Space City will have a plethora of fun options to choose from.  And, if the weather holds out like it has been for the last few days--everyone is almost guaranteed a successful time.  J.P. has kind of been all over the place today.  He did his coaching remotely and away from the art gallery, and, then of course he spent a good deal of time at Staples working a number of projects.  During the afternoon he completed hanging his Equestrian Escapism 2011 ten-piece art series in the gallery.  Y'all, it looks totally spectacular and it just kills me that I can't share images until is unveiled on October 15, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. here at the John Palmer Fine Art Gallery & Studio for Palmer's Afternoon of Escapism.  I've been plugging away on Facebook for a while--but, you guys don't want to miss this one.  Crazy good silent auction.  Champagne.  New works by all of the 2011 Escapist Artists.  A good time, guaranteed.

                                     
                                          2011 Escapist Artists, First Group Meeting...Seems Ages Ago!

Edits

Well, it took three rounds, but, I do believe that suggested Edits are now complete for the Escapism 2011 Catalogue.  I'm crazy impressed with it and now cannot wait to have the actual final product in my hands.  Each of the three 2011 Escapists are unveiling such unique works--and that dynamic really helps to add to the overall quality and presentation in John Palmer Art's upcoming publication.  For most of the day, John has been priming the Escapist Artist portion of the gallery for a fresh coat of paint.  This is the small room next to Amanda and Suzie's nerve center where we've been featuring the works of the 2010 Escapists for most of the year.  It's just for some time now it's needed a re-do--and of course J.P. wants it to look perfect for next weekend.  Because his ten-piece Equestrian Escapism 2011 series is complete--his time has been free to work on a number of other projects, namely the remaining pieces to be included in the Faces Portrait and Book Project.  He has a good many left to complete, for which we are very grateful...but, at this time of year last year I remember him being much more overwhelmed with the remaining Jane & Co. projects.  With that series, it's like a huge rush of sign-ups came through at the time of the Deadline.  With Faces, it's been more steady and consistent throughout the calendar year.  After a long day at my computer yesterday, there was a complete failure to cook last night.  Instead I picked up from the new Beck's Prime in the Heights.  Omg totally delicious...but, tonight I'm back on my game and making Taco Salad.  And with that, I must go as I have a meeting with 2011 Escapist-R Randall Jobe here at the gallery in just a few minutes.  Y'all have a great night!

                                                        
                                                                               Room in Progress

Dentist and More Dentist

Today, it's the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business' turn to go to the Dentist.  His is nothing major--just checking in and probably getting new Invisalign trays.  Dr. Holubec is impressed with John's progress, but, tells John that his experience will take longer than normal because his cross-bite was quite severe.  But honestly now I can barely see it--so it's definitely working.  Suzie and I have been on the phone most of the day with AT&T--trying to squeeze out some savings by bundling things together.  What, at first, seemed like a snap has turned into anything but.  However, I think I will be able to get a pretty significant phone and internet cost reduction by just entering into a longer contract.  After the dentist J.P. is visiting an art collector's home to go over the sketch for her second Faces portrait this year.  Terribly exciting stuff.  I've been at my desk most of the day and honestly most things online are driving me a bit batty.  Facebook is slow.  Twitter has been getting stuck.  One thing that was amazingly exciting, however, was our viewing of London Artist Lauren Jay Wondra Smyth's Interview for Artistnest.  (Full disclosure: Lauren and I did go to law school together at U of H and were known to hang out, well, all the time).  Nevertheless, in her candid and unscripted live interview, she's asked about her major influences in the art world.  After listing the obvious, Picasso and Matisse, she returns to the world of the living and mentions none other than John Palmer, "the Father of Escapism", as a major influence and source of inspiration.  John, Suzie and I totally screamed when we heard it.  I texted her immediately, "omfg."  I encourage you to please check it out for yourself by clicking the link I've inserted on this John Palmer Art Blog entry.  Lauren is so talented, beautiful and well-spoken...you won't be disappointed after learning all about this renegade artist.  (By the way, if you do check out the interview, please "Like it"  and leave a Positive Comment...she tells me that if it gains popularity it will be featured on the BBC!)  Well, right now it's getting near 4:00 p.m. and I can hear that John has arrived home and is playing with Jane in the gallery.  So pleasant to my ears.  I'm off for now and wishing everyone a great end to this spectacular day.

                                      
                                                         The Lovely Wondra and the Handsome Jez

Crown

I went in to the Dentist today to have my permanent crown installed.  Thankfully, it was quick and painless.  The only funny thing about it is that it's actually quite white in comparison to my other teeth so I think I'm due for a little whitening procedure.  J.P. has been working on a million different little items.  One surprise project is for this weekend's 5th Annual Houston Coming Out Day Party.  The event showcases an amazing live art auction and John is being honored as the Featured Artist.  It should be fabulous.  The amazing Raja will be in attendance and performing--I can't wait and I know it will be a sold-out affair.  Today I will complete the 3rd Round of edits on the Escapism 2011 Catalogue--I'm thinking and hoping it will-in-fact be the last.  Amanda worked this morning to set the installation times for the 2011 Escapist Artists.  Everything will be up and ready no later than this weekend as VIP Previews will commence on Monday, October 10, 2011.  Gosh, it seems like just yesterday that we were showing Edgar, Kelley and Ryan's pieces...This year sure has flown by!  And, finally...the weather is starting to match the date.  I remember the weather at our commitment ceremony in October of 2007--it was sunny and cool and perfect, just like today.  After I wrap up the John Palmer Art Blog I'll be putting on my short shorts, tank top and tennis shoes to burn off some of this weekend's booze.  I'm cooking spaghetti tonight and J.P. is crazy excited.  Sometimes we get into too much of a pattern with take-out and delivery--but, the goal for this week is to reconnect with some healthy home-cooking.  Want to know the secret to making your spaghetti spectacular?  Add a small amount of very finely diced pickled jalepenos.  To. Die.  For.

                                              
                                                                  Mmmmmmmmm

Holy October

Is anyone else excited to watch the Gamecocks play today?  I think I'm going to use some Taco Bell giftcards I got for my birthday, buy a bunch of delicious Mexican delights and then veg out in front of the game--hopefully watching the Cocks achieve a victory over Auburn.  I can't think of a better afternoon.  The weather in Houston is Heavenly and I've already enjoyed a one hour power-walk around the Historic Houston Heights.  J.P.'s been as busy as a bumble bee completing little projects here and there around the house.  Like I mentioned on the John Palmer Blog yesterday--we did enjoy a J.P. Special in Montrose before picking up Barnaby's and returning home to the art gallery.  John was dead tired and so we didn't stay out long.  We actually never stay out long which is just perfecto by me.  There's really not much to report to y'all today.  After an incredibly busy week, I'm so happy to enjoy a non-event-packed Saturday and Sunday.  Next week won't be too bad--mainly preparing for our huge October 15th weekend.  The Escapism 2011 Catalogue has gone through a second round of edits and so I'm pleased to know it's close to being ready to run.  The invites have been out for a while and I'm loving seeing the RSVPs trickle back in.  If you're in Houston, please go outside and soak in the gorgeous day!

                                        
                                                                                      Perfection

Pension

Last night was an incredibly special event.  The crowd that arrived to be honored for the new addition to the Collector's Wall was just awesome.  Fun.  Talkative.  Excited.  We had lots of laughs and even more champagne.  John surprised me with a delicious little birthday cake and we dined on one of my absolute favorites, pizza.  He even created two "special"  pizzas for us to enjoy upstairs in bed before we dozed off to sleep.  Today has been very relaxed.  We had our morning meeting at Java Java and actually brainstormed some new fun ideas for business--our therapist would be so proud!  By the way, half of our therapy is seriously business coaching and it's fantastic.  We decided in our last session that we needed to devote more time to brainstorming bigger and better ideas rather than just getting locked into the details of managing event after event and sale after sale.  We're often so stuck on the treadmill that this seems like an impossibility.  But, we are making headway.  Afterwards, I went to see Pam at State Farm regarding setting up our pension plan.  Pension.  That word just makes me feel like an old person.  Like a pensioner.  401(k) sounds so much more glamorous, you know?  Anyway, through the advice of our CPA we're going to start off with a SEP to get the ball rolling.  If you happen to be a business-minded person that disagrees with this plan of action, kindly do not e-mail about it.  I've heard so much about IRAs, SEPs and 401(k)s I think I'd rather die than have to change courses.  John is out-and-about--I know he's been at Staples working his usual magic and I think he's entertaining friends at the art gallery mid-afternoon before treating me to a J.P. Special in Montrose as a late birthday gift.  No huge plans this weekend--which means, I can't wait!  Everyone have a fabulous weekend!

                                    
                                                                                        Red Shoes

34

I need to be honest and let you know that I haven't been feeling well these last few days.  Yesterday after a stressful morning I spent most of the day in bed.  This morning, I climbed back into bed after getting to my computer.  I only came down again because I knew that if I checked on Facebook that it would lift my spirits.  You guys have no idea how much it did.  Every single kind post meant the world to me.  I'm a little teary-eyed now because life has been tough recently.  John and I are fine.  It's just, sometimes when you work so hard to achieve a better life and success, there are people that misunderstand you and your truly positive intentions.  We've had a barrage of this recently and it has not been deserved, and, it has been very painful.  Yes, John and I experience pain and insult and we have to deal with it.  Gosh, I hate to be such a Debbie Downer on my birthday John Palmer Art Blog posting, but, I would hope that the thing that people love most about this website is its inherent honesty.  I'm a big boy, and, by this evening, I'll have a hugely happy attitude and a monster smile on my face.  Tonight, we are honoring individuals that have been placed on the new addition to the Collector's Wall by having a champagne toast here at the art gallery.  Sure, it might coincide with my birthday, and, I will be missing my family.  But, for years now, for John and me, our collectors are our friends and family.  I simply cannot wait to see everyone and their reaction to be honored with their names etched in marble.  We've worked literally for years on this addition and to have our friends enjoy it tonight--I cannot imagine a better birthday present.  I love you all.

"How people treat you is their karma.  How you react is yours."  Wayne Dyer

                                           
                                                                          I Peaked Young

Back to Work

With John back from Greece, we've honestly been going a million miles per hour.  You'll have to excuse my non-diligence on posting the John Palmer Art Blog for this reason.  I'm truly surprised with how much energy J.P. has had after such a long journey home.  But, he's been pushing through and was a real trooper at Sunday's Open Studio.  I've been working my tail off to push out the invitations for our Black Tie event in October--and very thankfully they will be mailed out in about one hour.  They look spectacular.  It was the one task that I "had" to push onto the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business at the moment he returned home.  And, he nailed it.  I'm also so pleased that the publisher already has a proof for me for the Escapism 2011 Catalogue.  I'm thrilled with the thought, that, after probably a few rounds of edits--we'll have the final product way-in-advance of our unveiling on October 15, 2011.  We'll have a week of previews before the big occasion and so it always helps to have Catalogues on-hand for the VIPs that are treated to a sneak peek.  We have a bit of a full day today.  John joined a great friend and art enthusiast for coffee this morning followed by taking his friend Jim to the airport.  He has another coffee date mid-afternoon before we go to therapy--followed by a fun art event where we'll get to view a lot of spectacular pieces by some of our favorites, including a Robert Rauschenberg.  I can't wait.  I know that J.P. is equally enthusiastic about seeing some masterpieces.  It's a fun group that we joined through the CAMH, and, we've never done anything like it before so it should definitely be a real treat.  And, with that, I'm off to the Post Office (Downtown of course...)

                                       
                                            Creating on Skopelos Island with Foundation Director Gloria Carr

Lovers

My man is home and I couldn't not be more thrilled.  Actually, I'm glowing!  We're hosting an Open Studio today so please be sure to stop by and say hello--he has some amazing new pieces from Greece!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio TODAY, September 25, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                         
                                                                     Skopelos Island, Greece, 2011

Nap Time

I honestly think I have been suffering from some Paris jet-lag, but, that it's hitting me a tad later than expected.  The first few days I seemed just fine, but, for the past several there's been no way I could make it through the day without getting some z's by the time it hit 2:30 or 3:00 p.m.  It really hasn't changed my level of productivity as we've been getting a lot accomplished at the art gallery, but, it's been an undeniable reality.  I've actually always been of the mentality that an afternoon re-charge never hurt anybody--just so long as it didn't get your evening sleep schedule out-of-whack.  Which, judging my last several nights of evening sleep, it hasn't in the slightest.  I know that John and Jim have made it to Athens safely for a day or two in the big city before their flight back to the United States of America.  He texted me a pretty incredible view of the Acropolis just as I was waking up this morning.  I responded to please enjoy it and to have a blast but to just be careful.  I know they wouldn't venture into any volatile locations, but, it has been a bit nerve-racking to see all of the consistent negative headlines about Greece's situation while he's been away.  I've always just reminded myself--"He's on Skolopelos Island.  There certainly isn't any political rioting happening there..."  But, Athens is a bit of a different ballgame altogether, so, as soon as The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business gets on the big jet plane home--I'll be all the happier.  I have such incredibly fond memories of Athens when John and I were there in 2009.  Mainly--I totally adored our hotel, the Royal Olympic.  It was just a stone's throw away from the Acropolis, had amazing views, a totally glamorous pool and such top-notch service.  We felt like we were in Heaven after having a quite turbulent year in Houston that first year I had joined the business of John Palmer Art officially.  We had to return to still quite-uncertain-financial realities, but, at least for that brief stint we acquired a very much-needed mental health break.  Business-wise, it has done a world of good for me to be home on this latest trip of John's to Greece.  I've closed on some good business and so thankfully we'll be entering a feverishly-busy October with a great deal of momentum.  Having said that, I'm still ready to have him back!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, September 25, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                           
                                                                                   Old School

FB

I'm trying to take the new Facebook format in my stride, but, it's kind of tough.  Although I'm sure I'll get used to it, overall, it just seems very "busy"  to me.  One item I did like is the new birthday feature where you can quickly type out Happy Birthday to each person having their special day without having to visit each of their Pages individually.  Since I operate the Facebook Pages for both John and me, this can be a very time-consuming morning task (Especially for J.P. who now has 2,000+ Friends).  But I do remember hating it the last time they re-formatted before getting used to it, and, I'm also sure they've had enough technical geniuses study the new format and they're confident that it's for the best for all of us.  The situation is, of course, getting a lot of attention on Twitter where one of the top trending topics is #NewFacebook.  My favorite Tweet so far said "#NewFacebook is kind of like America.  A lot of people are disappointed but they aren't going to leave."  No kidding.

I woke up this morning to a super cute text and photo from John with the gang on Skopelos Island, seen below.  His message, "Packed it all up at the studio.  So sad to leave, but excited to begin the journey home."  Please travel safe, Lover.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, September 25, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!


                                               
                                                                               John, Jill, Yiorgos and Gloria

Miles

I'm so happy that after my trip to Paris I've already secured Silver Elite status for 2012.  There are no real privileges associated with this, except, I do enjoy boarding first and having a shorter line for Security Check.  With a few more trips scheduled this Fall, I've tried to play with the numbers to see if I squeezed in another big trip before January I could reach the Gold Elite level.  I don't really know what the real difference would be, and, I don't think I could achieve it unless I traveled to somewhere as far as Asia or Australia.  So, I don't think that one is in the cards for me.  We're going to have to look at it a bit more closely for John.  Because his trip to Greece was purchased for-the-most-part using Miles, he doesn't receive the normal credit for traveling.  I do still think he'll make it considering upcoming trips to New York, Arizona and North Carolina--but, he still might need one more flight to hit the 25,000 mark.  We had such a glorious time in London last New Year's I would totally consider making that trip again.  But of course, nothing has been decided as of this point.  I just hope J.P. won't be totally dead upon his return home from Greece.  I can definitely do all of the heavy-lifting related to preparing for our Open Studio, but, it would be nice if he was awake and conscious for the get-together.  It just lasts two hours and so I'm sure that he'll be fine, and, most likely really enjoy showing off some of his newly-created pieces from Skopelos Island.  Although he does have a few more days in paradise, I know that feeling of what it's like to have to leave Greece--and it's mighty tough.  But, I know that he and I will definitely go back there many times in the future.  I, for one, cannot wait for the next adventure.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, September 25, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                   
                                                                 John on Skopelos Island, 2009

Weekend Off

Yes, as you might have noticed, I did not post the John Palmer Art Blog all weekend.  I have no good reason, except, when I positioned myself at the laptop I just didn't have much inspiration.  I actually really miss J.P.  The reminders of him are obviously everywhere and it just has been getting to me.  It's totally fine.  It's just that I feel like I've been a world away from him for way too long.  We've been great about texting but clearly that doesn't replace the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business.  But, I do have work to keep me occupied.  Of course, it's just not the same without him.

                                                
                                                                        One of my Favorites

TGIF

I know.  I know.  I've just spent a week on vacation in Paris.  But, after two extremely full days back to the grind here in Houston, Texas, I'm so ready for the weekend.  Suzie, Amanda and I killed it today at the art gallery--getting out written and electronic invitations, sending out a Press Release related to the Afternoon of Escapism, assisting our photographer in shooting the Escapists' artwork and ringing up some nice sales.  I know all of the hard work will allow for a more relaxing weekend.  But, there are still projects to finalize.  I need to deliver the documents to the publisher for the Escapism 2011 Catalogue no later than Wednesday of next week, and so, that means completing and updating Artist Statements and Bios, writing the Introduction and Dedication as well as confirming the size, medium and dimensions for all of the pieces included in the Catalogue.  Since we made a Catalogue for last year's Black Tie weekend--I already have a fantastic template to use as an example.  I don't whine about these sort of projects because they are honestly my favorite to complete.  So, I'm looking forward to it, and, I hope that you all are looking forward to a fun weekend too!

J.P. texted me earlier today and let me know that he had done an 11 hour stint creating art pieces, including pottery, at the Skopelos Foundation for the Arts on Skopelos Island, Greece.  I told him to please have our friend Jim e-mail some photos so that I could share them online!  So, thanks for your patience in this regard.  I know he's having a blast, but, the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business is busting his tail to continue to evolve as an artist even though he's a world away.  Missing you J.P.

                                          
                                                                                       The 2011 Escapist Artists

Crown

My last day in Paris was glorious.  Versailles was totally stunning.  However, I must admit that I was a horribly bad tourist.  I made it there easily, snapped photos, went to the gift shop, and then, left...First, I was kind of starving, and, the line looked insanely long.  All I really wanted to selfishly do was make my way back to Paris, wander around the city for one last time and enjoy a few glasses of wine at one of my favorite sidewalk cafes.  So, that's what I did and I have no regrets.  It was fun to sit quietly and reflect on a fun trip of a lifetime.  Sandrine and Viet took me to an amazing restaurant for dinner--some of the most interesting cuisine I've ever tried and most definitely one of the Top 5 desserts of all time.  We took a bus ride home to enjoy the lights of Paris before coming home to pack up my luggage.  I can never thank Sandrine and Viet enough for their hospitality in letting me stay with them and experience Paris life through the eyes of locals.  I actually slept beautifully before my 6:30 a.m. taxi arrived.  The ride to the airport, check-in, security and boarding process were all absolutely seamless.  And, for the second time in a row I had an empty seat next to me.  Gosh that really just makes the trip "feel"  like First Class.  I slept well, ate well and stayed away from the booze (I'm honestly going on a little Detox after the power-drinking that was prevalent in Paris).  With about three hours left in the flight, like an idiot, I tried to crack a huge piece of ice and I completely smashed my filling.  It didn't hurt but it looked terrible!  My dentist applauded my wisdom for calling in to see him immediately rather than waiting for my next Tuesday appointment.  Even my dentist experience was not that bad.  I don't think it's the physical discomfort of the drilling but more of the sound of it that works on my nerves.  Anyway, in no time I was out of there and back to Jane and the kitties at home.  I had an absolutely tiny dinner before sleeping like a King (yes, that was a reference to my new temporary Crown).  Now, Suzie and I are back to the grind and working on a million different things.  I know that my jetlag will eventually set in my mid to late afternoon but I'll do my best to push through it and stay on a regular schedule.  I've done laundry, set aside the dry cleaning and done plenty of snuggling with Jane.  The gallery is looking top notch and I'm pleased with all that was accomplished in my absence.  Life is good.

I got a few texts from J.P. this morning.  The first one was sending good energy related to the tooth issue and the second showed Jim on the ferry, I'm guessing to their final destination of Skopelos Island.  While a part of me would just die to be with him, another major part of me feels that my place is working here at the art gallery until their return in a few weeks.  Now I'm the one with the major To-Do List...

                                       
                                                                                    Palace of Versailles

Shopping

Yesterday morning I spent quite a bit of my time catching up with things online, sending some work-related e-mails back to the art gallery and uploading a slew of photos from Paris to Facebook.  It was a relief to get through because I'd been so busy and neglecting my John Palmer Art Blog duties.  So, I didn't leave Sandrine & Viet's place until about 1:00 p.m.  The main goal for the day: shopping.  Now, I know I've described my hatred for shopping on the Blog before, but, it's not really the same when you are in Paris and you are lucky to have some Euros to burn.  I had an absolute blast.  The shopkeepers were extremely friendly and helpful.  In one shop I actually had to try on items a number of times--figuring that my usual M or L size would work--in fact, no, I needed an XL.  I'm seriously hoping this had to do with the sizes being based on mega-thin French model because I cannot remember the last time I had to buy anything XL...So, after buying some new shoes, belt, watch, tops and jackets I was done.  Of course, one jacket in particular is quite over-the-top (it sort of has a furry hood--which is crazy fabulous, but, I think I'll be able to wear it approximately one day out of the year in Houston. Moscow 2012?).  I didn't want to come home too early so I went for a few drinks at the Open Bar and witnessed some pretty spectacular people-watching in Le Marais.  It was sunny and clear and almost all of the sidewalk cafes were full to the brim.  It was still quite early when I returned home.  I changed into comfortable clothes and then enjoyed a scotch or two before a delicious homemade dinner: a fabulous salad prepared by Sandrine that included potatoes cooked in Duck Fat and Chicken Livers.  I devoured every bite it was so tasty.  After dinner, I thanked Sandrine and Viet for an amazing dinner and their enormous hospitality this week by presenting them with an original John Ross Palmer Faces portrait.  The painting was inspired by a photograph of the newly-married couple on their Honeymoon in Peru.  They loved it!  I could watch Viet and see him with pride trying to decide where they were going to place it prominently.  After an after dinner drink of Sandrine's grandfather's homemade plum wine (very strong...), I was off to bed.  Today I plan to journey to the Palace of Versailles.  I'm really looking forward to it--as my mom has described it as one of the most breathtaking sites she's ever visited.  Viet has already reserved a 6:30 a.m. taxi for me to CDG in the morning--and so I'm unsure if I'll be able to post anything until I'm back in Houston proper.  Please send good energy for smooth and safe travels!

Before Amanda took J.P. and Jim to the airport, I was able to Skype with them in the midst of shopping.  It was so unreal to see them all, and Jane, from so far away and in real time.  As predicted, they were off-the-charts excited about their long journey and also wishing me a great time for my last few days in Paris.  I also got a text preview of the series that John will be unveiling on the afternoon of October 15, 2011 at the Afternoon of Escapism.  100% guarantee--it's going to knock you socks off!

                                          
                                                                  Power Shopping

Christening

The last few days have been such a whirlwind there's literally no way that I could have posted the John Palmer Art Blog.  You know I always do my best to keep you updated...but, it was just an impossibility.  So--here's a recap:  Saturday I joined Erika's family for a walking tour of Montmarte.  Totally stunning.  We had a top-notch tour guide that gave us an interesting history lesson at various locations.  The Sacre Coeur was breathtaking.  I will admit that after walking for three hours solid, I was pretty darn tired.  Well, I'll be honest.  I was really thirsty.  I think Mrs. Miller was having the same issue so it's at about this time we sit down in the back of a crowded restaurant for some wine.  It was amazing.  The Millers did not disappoint in their strong story-telling ability.  At this point the tour was basically complete so we found a very quaint cafe where we could eat lunch on one of their many sidewalk tables.  Delicious.  More wine.  One of the highlights occurred when Lauren knocked her glass of wine off the table, smashing it on the sidewalk and landing Chardonnay all over my jeans.  She explained to me that I should be thankful because she intentionally knocked it that way so as to avoid getting wine on my phone and camera.  Thanks, Lauren.  I had the wisdom at this point to head home for a nap to freshen up before the nice family dinner.  Foie gras.  Steak.  Crazy good.  After a cocktail at another restaurant, Lauren and her boyfriend Ollie joined me for some barhopping in Le Marais (gayborhood of Paris).  We started out at Le Cox.  This is one of my favorite gay bars in the world now.  The men are crazy hot in a rugged sort of way, and, everybody stands and drinks outside on the sidewalk.  It's hot.  Next, we went to the Raidd Bar.  Now, I had been there the night before so I had explained to L.C. and Ollie that we had to stand in the right place to get the best view of that night's performance artist.  And, by performance artist, I mean a hot, chiseled muscular guy that strips behind a window while taking a shower.  So we were like ten inches away from the window.  Yes, I think it was about ten inches.  It was so crowded that I decided to order us each a double vodka drink.  After overcoming a major language barrier in the very noisy bar, the barman told me that would be 52 Euros for the three cocktails, or, I could just buy the bottle of vodka for 90 Euros and that all mixers would be included (Red Bull too.).  So, I was sold.  And, this was a very historic moment because I've never had "bottle service" before so to be in Paris in such a classy place with such great friends was totally perfect for my virgin experience.  The night's entertainment did not disappoint.  Well, in a small way, it did.  He didn't show the goods.  I don't know why, Ollie and I did have some speculations, but, on the night before--let's just say the performer not only showed the goods but he aslo made them an amazingly integral part of the performance.  I took a taxi home after the bottle of vodka was kaput only after making Ollie pose in some pretty silly photos with me that I'm sure could be used for bribery purposes at some point in his life.  It's a real miracle that I even woke up on Sunday to meet Jean-Michel and Elisa for the ride to Breuillet.  Elisa sat in the back and I secretly thanked God because it meant the A/C would be hitting me directly in the face.  Even though it was rainy we arrived early after about a 40 minute ride from Paris.  Because the regular Sunday mass was taking place, so as not to interrupt, Jean-Michel asked me if it would be "ok" if we went to a bar for a beer or coffee.  Now there's no language barrier when I'm asked that question.  We walked in the first pub, and, what do you know?  The entire Miller family is in the same place!  With this family, why I didn't expect some sort of pre-gaming situation before a Christening is beyond me.  The service was simply gorgeous.  Miller looked adorable as always and Erika looked like a million dollars wearing a stylish black hat and dress (very similar to the one Miss America Kimberly Aiken of South Carolina wore when she took the title--I brought this fact up, more than once).  I had a reading where I did well but fumbled just a tad--not knowing where the second part of my reading started on the program.  Erika had to give me a little pointer and then I was back on my game.  Following the Christening, we went to Nico's father's neighborhood sport and country club for a pretty grand reception.  Speeches.  Champagne.  Out of this world eats.  I presented an original John Ross Palmer portrait to our hosts that day, Nico's father Bernard and his wife Patricia.  This was remarkable and now the second time in 2011 that an international politician has received a Palmer portrait as Bernard is actually the Mayor of Breuillet.  It was just so sad I didn't want the day to end.  I hated seeing Ollie and Lauren leave to catch their train in Paris back to London.  But, I did enjoy the taxi ride home with the Miller family--full of spirited conversation as always.  I did go to Le Cox for a few drinks before making my way back to Sandrine's and Viet's home.  I stopped down the street from their place and bought not one but two pepperoni pizzas from Pizza Hut.  Gosh that was delicious.  But, then, I was dead tired.  I don't think I've ever slept so well.  It's actually really nice to think that I now have a few more days in Paris to relax and unwind after two very busy days behind me.  I have no plans other than to take a trip to the Palace of Versailles tomorrow (Tuesday).

J.P. leaves for Greece today with his friend Jim.  They've been looking forward to this trip for a long time and so I know they must be thrilled beyond words.  Of course, John will be returning to relax while creating some art at the Skopelos Foundation for the Arts on Skopelos Island.  It's glorious and I have such fond memories of my trip there back in 2009.  Safe travels boys!!

                                            
                                                            Keep Your Eye on This Kid!

Paris Friday

I'm sorry for the incredibly brief John Palmer Art Blog yesterday (evening for me).  Everything on the trip has gone like a dream so far.  The flight was so smooth and easy.  On the ride to the airport I remarked to John, "I just hope somebody cool is seated next to me."  He returned with, "I just hope you have an empty seat next to you."  And literally, his last text before I shut down my phone stated "Visualizing that empty seat!"  True enough, it happened!  That is just such a luxury when flying internationally so you can sleep in peace and have a great deal more space.  My luggage landed without fail and finding the taxi line was a breeze.  I showed him Sandrine's address and he nodded comfortably and without question.  When I got into the car...I swear I'm not teasing...the first song that played on the radio was Y.M.C.A.  I thought, this trip is bound to be hilarious.  Finding Sandrine and Viet's place was easy except for some mild traffic.  Maybe I haven't explained who Sandrine is?  She went to Daniel High School with me in Central, SC and through the magic of Facebook--we've reconnected.  She and her husband have graciously let me stay in their Guest Room of their home, which is so adorable and nice.  Sandrine and I caught up on all things related to politics, religion and healthcare (there was a lot to cover we haven't seen each other in over a decade) while sipping a coffee before I was off to explore Paris.  She walked me to the train station and helped me with the purchase of a 5 Day Pass.  Then I was off on my own!  So exciting!  I made it to the Eiffel Tower easy as pie.  Because the line was spectacularly long I chose not to go up.  I actually have done that before so no worries in that regard.  I did enjoy sitting in the park and eating a delicious lunch (Ham & Cheese Panini with a Coke Lite) while having the landmark tower above me.  I had plans to meet Sandrine back at home around 6:30 p.m., and I didn't want to really visit another large tourist destination, so I made my way to the La Marais District to wander around.  Although "gay" Paris is spread out throughout the city, from what I've read this is sort of the hub.  I knew during the hours I was visiting not much would be open in terms of bars, but, it didn't matter, I just wanted to sort of see the scene.  Actually, a super cute cafe and bar known as the Open Cafe was open and busy.  I loved having a few cocktails and people watching.  Afterwards, I made my way back home.  All was a breeze except I had some difficulty switching back from the Metro to the Train.  I thought it was as simple as following the signs which said RER but it's a little more complicated.  I'll spare you the details.  It just took me about 20 minutes to get my bearings and then I was back at home in a flash.  Well, I did pick up some scotch first.  After a long and eventful day I wanted just one.  It did not disappoint.  Sandrine, Viet and I went to the market together to select some wine and cheese (the subject of yesterday's John Palmer Art Blog).  It was sort of hilarious.  When you walk into the store the first huge aisle is dominated with wine.  I thought, "Now these people are enlightened. You pick your wine first and then match with food with the drink."  Then, Sandrine explained that it's not normally this way.  Yes, they have a hefty wine section, but September is a special time in Paris for wine promotion--the reason for the unique first wine-aisle.  I was still very impressed.  Dinner was an absolutely delicious homemade quiche thanks to Sandrine before I excused myself for a long and wonderful slumber.  I tossed and turned only a few times but otherwise it was 10+ hours of very sound sleep.  I'll now plan to get ready for the day's adventure--still not decided 100% but leaning towards the Louvre--you can't go wrong with that option.  I'll be online as much as I can--thanks for following along everyone!

J.P. has been busy at home and sending me plenty of sweet and informative texts.  Love you and miss you babe. R

                                         
                                                                                   John, this One is for You.

Day One in France

It was amazing.  And, because I pushed through with no nap, I'm now deathly tired after an absolutely incredible homemade French dinner.  Thank you Sandrine and Viet--and to the John Palmer Art Blog readers--I'll have to hit you up tomorrow!

                                      
                                                                                      France

The Journey has Started

Tuesday

So, I definitely did start the John Palmer Art Blog yesterday, but, then life and the holiday got in the way.  Beers with Ryan and Christina at Onion Creek.  Cooking hot dogs and the Lindsay world-famous-baked-beans.  Wine.  So, because it was the Labor Day holiday I justified not posting it.  It's been a long one today too but I owe it to you guys to let you know what's happening in the world of Artist John Ross Palmer.  Unfortunately (for him), his main task of the day has been to take me shopping.  Y'all, I'm such a terrible gay man.  I abhor shopping.  I can't remember the last time I've been to purchase clothes for myself.  I'm a 33-year-old man that still relies on my mother's Christmas presents of clothes to keep the wardrobe "fresh."  You see, when I'm in Paris next week, I'll adore shopping.  The cool scene and intriguing environment will have me over-the-moon captivated.  But, the thought of going to the Marshalls on W. Gray is like death.  But, I'm sooo lucky that J.P. is such a wonderful, quick and efficient shopper.  He always has the cutest things and I'm fortunate to be able to borrow most of them.  Except shoes.  Somebody has big feet (and yes, the stereotype rings true in that regard...and I hope my mom misses this entry...).  It's like double-the-wardrobe when you're in a same sex relationship--based on the economics alone more people should really give it a try.  But seriously, John has been working on some amazing, secret and special art masterpieces for my voyage to France and so he'll be putting the finishing touches on those this evening.  2011 Escapist Raul Gonzalez will be delivering his artwork for the huge October unveiling in about one hour's time and so I'll need to make sure the archives have space and that his Save-the-Date Notices for the black tie gala are ready for him.  We're going to have Barnaby's as my last meal in America before I take the leap overseas. To.  Die.  For.  I am so excited about going to France and reconnecting with my Daniel High School friend Sandrine.  She's graciously invited me to stay in she and her husband's guest room while in Paris.  To have a Paris insider as an ally on this jaunt is so priceless.  Almost as priceless as this picture...

                                                         
                                                               Not Joking about the Raspberry Beret

Saying Goodbye to San Antonio

It was such a bittersweet goodbye.  San Antonio is fabulous.  If you followed along with our silly posts on Facebook, you could tell we were having a good time letting our hair down.  It was also simply amazing to re-connect with our friend, FCC Member and avid John Ross Palmer art collector, Shelly Contreras.  We laughed more than ever and were given the V.I.P. treatment at her restaurant.  Now, there's nothing that's been confirmed and so I cannot go into details, but, she does have tentative plans for a restaurant expansion that might possibly include some major Palmer artwork...more information on that incredibly exciting opportunity when more plans are finalized.  J.P. is always over-the-moon excited about any new project possibilities, but, this one is particularly exhilarating for him.  The ride home to Houston was smooth and easy--except for a few phases of traveling through smoke from a wildfire.  Guys, the land is just so dry and we're desperate for rain.  Since being home for a few hours--the sky appears gray and threatening but it just won't let loose!  Fingers crossed that it will--and soon.  I've been catching up on some mail and paperwork and John's been busy in his art studio since the return.  I think he had some ideas bottled up that he needed to engage in before the vision was lost.  Even though tomorrow is a holiday and the business of John Palmer Art will be closed, I know it will comfort me to make a To-Do List before the end of today.  Just seeing what is ahead of me is very comforting.  I know that is weird for some people--but I'd rather face things right in the eye.  And, seriously, I do think I'm going to grind it pretty hard (business-wise...) before flying off to the land of Frogs.  I've been assured that where I'm staying will have awesome Wifi and so so you'll definitely be hearing from me on the John Palmer Art Blog while abroad.  Guys, it's so close I can't wait.  Oh, and speaking of To-Do Lists--you can only imagine the one I'll be leaving behind for the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business!

                                            
                                                                                      We Heart San Antonio, Texas

Hard to be a Gamecock

San Antonio

Amazing, long, fun, successful and yes, tiring, day.  We are in glorious San Antonio, Texas and I'm only now capable of posting this John Palmer Art Blog entry at approximately 9:46 p.m. after checking into our hotel.  I'll see you guys tomorrow and will most definitely have some really awesome pictures for Facebook!

Mail

I speak regularly on the John Palmer Art Blog about mail.  I love to send and receive mail.  Even when we have a huge, time-consuming mailer (like we do tomorrow...), I get a tremendous amount of satisfaction once it has been completed and mailed.  And, also, regularly I speak about positive and inspiring things that happen in our lives, or, a conflict or problem that forced us to come up with a solution or more effective way of operating.  Today is an exception.  One thing that I totally abhor in Houston is going to the U.S. Post Office.  Why is it always, always, such a total nightmare?  If you are a citizen of the Historic Houston Heights, you definitely must know what I'm talking about.  The Office on 11th St. is pure pathetic.  They are soooo slow, never have enough workers and almost always give you some type of attitude.  They stroll around from the back to the front and appear nothing short of totally lazy.  Today, because I was running errands on W. Gray, I popped in that location with the prayer it would be better.  Again, total nightmare.  They informed me that they "didn't have any stamps."  Guys, I could run with analogies here, but, that's pretty much like McDonald's saying we don't have fries.  I asked to speak to the supervisor and she told me, "Well, I'm one of them but that sho' ain't gonna get you more stamps..."  "I was asking because I plan to file a complaint," I responded.  The girl in front of me at the counter promptly asked for a complaint form too.  I then asked her how late the downtown Post Office was open and she informed me 7:00 p.m.  I wanted to kick myself.  I just didn't know it stayed open that late!  For at least two years, I have refused to enter any other Post Office in Houston other than the Downtown Office because there, they always have plenty of service clerks, always are friendly and always are fast.  So, if you live in Houston--the Heights in particular--I would seriously keep this in mind.  It is more than worth the ten minute drive to trek it downtown and receive good service.

Anyway, I've gathered that J.P. has had a lovely day and we'll catch up once I finish the John Palmer Art Blog and the glass of scotch that he immediately poured for me once he heard the "stamps" story.

                                   
                                                                                    My Stamps

The Chron

I was amazingly thrilled to see J.P. and our friend Christina Gorczynski (Executive Director for the Houston League of Women Voters) featured in today's issue of the Houston Chronicle!  I had seen Christina tweet the link but didn't realize until another friend on Twitter referred to them being on Page 3 that they actually appeared in the printed version.  You guys know I am obsessed with all things online, but, in my opinion there's still certainly something very special about being in the "real"  paper.  Of course, there is no way to measure what affect this sort of highlight has on J.P.'s career or our business, but I certainly do believe that it helps.  Who knows, maybe one day it'll be an appearance in the New York Times!  Actually, at one point in John's life he was featured in a national newspaper.  USA Today.  It was before his life as an artist--when he was a teen and operated his own landscaping business in Alief.  I have no clue how they picked up on this tidbit about a suburban adolescent in Houston, Texas, but, it did happen.  I've always begged John if he has a copy--he thinks that it might be somewhere buried in his mom's home--I'd just love to have it to frame it and include it on his wall of accolades.  It's so funny.  Back at home in Clemson I had a "wall of accolades" so to speak.  Since being gone from home for so long, my mom finally remodeled my room and what my friend Erika referred to the "Shrine to Ryan."  John and I just have this in common.  We're proud of achieving life accomplishments and we're happy and thrilled to share the news or display the honors to others.  I love it that we are married, certainly the biggest accomplishment of my life.

                                 

This is one of my favorite photos of all time.  It was taken after we were legally married in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on July 4, 2008.  We said our vows at the Toronto Wedding Chapel, a chic Vegas-style venue where we were in and out in an hour.  I adored every second and John teared up because of the significance of it being legal.  I'll never forget how handsome he was that day.

Paris Fever

It really just never fails.  Yesterday, I posted a picture of John and me with the Mayor of the Fourth Largest City in America as she proudly held a copy of The Art of Meaningful Living.  You see that it was also on the John Palmer Art Blog yesterday.  Well, I think we got maybe two or three "Likes"--including one from "John Ross Palmer" so that doesn't really count.  Then, today, I say something about wanting to drink a lot of wine in France and it's like...damn...everyone is all over that like white on rice--Commenting and Liking it like crazy.  It's almost as popular as my post last week about eating Taco Bell.  You would have thought CNN would have picked it up as Headline News it got such a reaction.  Anyway, I'll take it.  Just, please do see those ones of John with Mayor Annise Parker, John jurying a major art contest in Michigan, John being honored as Outreach United's Featured Artist, and, you don't have to Like it, just know it and absorb it for me.  That's all I ask.  Anyway, it seems like I've been working my tail off on various projects at my desk all day--knocking off items on my To-Do List like a Pro.  J.P. had a fun meeting with 2010 Escapist Edgar Medina before connecting with an art collector from over a decade ago!  She needed him to sign an amazing, historic piece of his.  For some crazy-unknown reason I forgot to take a photograph of it!  But, it was just so special for me to see a piece from so long ago.  His technique and style have advanced so much and in so many ways since 2001 it's just mesmerizing.  We have no plans tonight and so it'll be an early one for us!

                                                
                                                                           Explanation

Terribly Sorry

Guys, I know it's been ages since I've posted on the John Palmer Art Blog.  It's just...we've been slightly busy.  Over the course of the last week, we've hosted four large events here at the art gallery: A Kick-off Party for Outreach United's Houston Coming Out Day Party, a Fundraiser for the League of Women Voters, our Fourth Annual Collector's Night and a Sunday Open Studio.  I've used the phrase "we're running on fumes" to more than one family member or friend to describe the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business and me.  But, I must admit, it's all been a total blast.  Of course, John Ross Palmer Jeopardy is an insane amount of hard work to pull off, but, it's most assuredly one of my favorite nights of the year.  I would sincerely like to thank and congratulate our fierce competitors: Herb, Christine and Richard.  You guys impressed me so much with your intense knowledge of Artist John Ross Palmer.  Even though it was my goal to get back to the laptop bright and early this morning...it just didn't happen.  John and I had a much-needed business meeting at Java Java before we then prepped for a meeting with the Mayor at City Hall.  It was such an incredible honor to shake hands with such an esteemed leader.  John presented Mayor Parker with an autographed copy of The Art of Meaningful Living.  She very graciously turned through the pages and happened upon one of my absolute favorite quotes from the book, "If you get a flat tire, don't slash the other three."  I felt like I could almost hear Christopher Brown saying those very words at one of the many workshops he hosted here at our Houston Art Gallery.  Anyway, now I've got about ten minutes to get changed, have a glass of wine and leave the gallery for a super-fun art installation and dinner with friends in the Heights.  I'm so glad to be back!!

                             
                                       Artist John Ross Palmer with Mayor Parker and Some Guy in a Bowtie

Set Up

While yesterday was devoted to tidying up and organizing the Art Archives, today will be dedicated to setting up the Great Room with guest seating, Contestant and Host pedestals and the official Game Board.  Our RSVPs are looking really strong and so I'm hoping for a packed house.  Last year we were slammed and I think many Collectors are returning because they enjoyed the hilarious nature of the 1st Annual John Ross Palmer Jeopardy contest.  Did I mention that I'm kind of a mean host?  Well, "mean" is really not the right way to describe it--dead-ass-serious is more like it.  There are strict guidelines (such as no talking from the guests) that raise my eyebrows if they aren't adhered to.  I also kind of don't like it when one of the Contestants tries to inform me that "My buzzer is not working!"  Well, when we did a test run 15 minutes ago, it was.  So, let's move along.  God forbid someone's mobile device goes off!  I might have to pull a Judge Hellums and take it away from them for a day.  I really hope there are some family law attorneys reading the John Palmer Art Blog today that understand that one.  Oh--just to let you know--I got a haircut.  God I look so much better.  I do highly recommend Doug's BarberShop in the Heights as being fabulous.  $12.  Plus, I can walk there.  A scene in Rushmore was filmed there so it's definitely V.I.P.  John had a busy morning--helping me to set up the Art Gallery as well as switching out the Vinyl on the gallery window from Dublin 2011 to Collectors' Night 2011.  I know it's stupid but I love it when he switches out the vinyl.  It's not easy because he takes time to do it with precision--but it makes me excited because it means that we're moving on to the next big event or unveiling.  Right now J.P. is across town visiting with friend and art enthusiast Dr. Lynn Dickens.  She's so funny.  She was a fierce competitior in last year's John Ross Palmer Jeopardy game but did not come away with the title.  On her RSVP she informed us that she will be attending but put a frowny face and acknowledged she was last year's "Loser."  Y'all, believe me, Dr. Dickens is no loser.  I think genius would be more appropriate!  Anyway, y'all have a fun weekend and we hope to you here at the art gallery!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, August 28, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard! It's Collector's Weekend--you don't want to miss this one!

Remember to e-mail me at Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com and phrase your "Answer" in the form of a "Question"...

                                         
                                                                              Friday Contest

Unbelievably Organized

J.P. and I have spent all day, literally, organizing our Art Archives area.  You might not think it's a monumental task, but, to finish it in simply one day is truly amazing.  As per J.P., paintings are now perfectly labeled by size, style and dimensions.  We are having great friends and collectors over to dinner tonight so I'm hoping they'll test the Artist-in-Residence and check his skills on how quickly and smoothly he's able to show them certain pieces.  There was no powerwalk for me today, but, with all of the lifting, rolling and unrolling of canvases I spent most of the day sweating and certainly got a very decent workout.  Because our guests arrive in appoximately an hour, I must now get beautiful and get dinner on its way.  Tomorrow is Friday!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, August 28, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard! It's Collector's Weekend--you don't want to miss this one!

Remember to e-mail me at Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com and phrase your "Answer" in the form of a "Question"...


                                            
                                                                           Thursday Contest

Get Ready

Oh gosh.  This time of year is so exciting around the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio!  In gearing up for "Collector's Weekend," I have such blast finalizing the Answers and Questions for John Ross Palmer Jeopardy, testing out the buzzers and brainstorming with J.P. on how most effectively to combine the night's entertainment with an art-opportunity-extravaganza.  Work-wise, it's most definitely one of my favorite nights of the year.  In terms of the big game, I already have all of the Categories and Q & A's completed.  I've handwritten them in my journal and so now I just need to type them up in a concise manner for the exclusive evening.  J.P. has had a great idea about how to arrange the Great Room to make it more effective in terms of viewing capabilities and seating opportunities for the guests.  One change is that we'll be affixing the Dollar-Increment-Signs on a movable, temporary wall rather than an actual gallery wall.  Not only does this give more gallery space to original artwork, it also saves J.P. from having to "fix"  the wall afterwards.  Last year there were dozens of tack holes that he had to clean up.  Our scorekeepers are set.  A beautiful "Vanna" is ready to help out the handsome host.  One thing I desperately need to do before this weekend is get a haircut and have a proper shave.  I should actually go the extra mile and splurge for a mani/pedi but not sure if I'll be able to squeeze that in by Saturday. 

John is working on a number of commissions today as well as helping me with some "visuals"  that I'll need for John Ross Palmer Jeopardy.  We are extremely honored to be hosting the Houston League of Women Voters Fall Fundraiser this evening at the gallery.  I've been so impressed in working with them and have been super-thrilled to see their media releases about John and the gallery popping up all over the place online.  It'll be a fun night for sure.  Hey, I like Women.  I like Voters.  And, I like Wine.  Winning.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, August 28, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard! It's Collector's Weekend--you don't want to miss this one!

Remember to e-mail me at Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com and phrase your "Answer" in the form of a "Question"...

                                                     
                                                                      Wednesday Contest

Celine and Earthquakes

There are just so many things to talk about today!  The Great Quake (my mom definitely felt it in SC).  Our Celine tickets arriving via FedEx.  Lunch from Taco Bell.  John and Suzie making Collector Calls.  It's been one helluva day here at John Palmer Art!

But, what I really need to discuss with you is this trainwreck known as Most Eligible Dallas.  By that title, one could naturally assume that the individuals featured in the show are, in fact, desirable.  But, not really.  Actually, not at all.  I think I might have even just thought myself into the reason why that is the name of the show.  They are eligible because they are not "taken" and there's obviously a boatload of reasons for that.  Conceitedness.  Stupidity.  Being fat.  Having a bald spot.  Managing a sunglasses shop (or maybe kiosk I'm not sure).  Not being able to handle your booze.  Being judgmental.  Well, the thing is, I guess you could accuse me of being a bully cause I'm now the one being judgmental.  But, I think I sort of have the right to be as they're the ones appearing on my television screen all the time.  Yes, this show has all of the ingredients of so many things that are wrong with our society.  Prizing money and fame over quality of character.  Using people to advance your own intentions without a second thought of the impact it will have on the people involved.  I could go on.  I'm sure it's now totally obvious why I'm full-on hooked to this t.v. trainwreck.  I'd also like to thank my friends (you know you you are) that put up with my slew of text messages during last night's episode. 

I've even gotten J.P. a bit hooked on this type of garbage.  I speak often about our days full of work, running the business and hosting events.  At the end of the day, John and I take our trays of food, Jane's bowl and generally a bottle of wine (or 2) upstairs to our private quarters to relax and unwind before going to sleep.  Watching totally mindless television always achieves the desired effect--shutting our brains down.  Watching housewives scream at each other really doesn't provide much food or thought or inspire poignant discussion.  So, why some might think it's crazy that I let the mind of such an esteemed Artist be diluted by Andy Cohen Live drinking games, I actually think my efforts should be applauded by giving that overworked brain a little time off.  I can't wait to see what will be on tonight!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, August 28, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard! It's Collector's Weekend--you don't want to miss this one!

Remember to e-mail me at Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com and phrase your "Answer" in the form of a "Question"...

                                              
                                                                      Tuesday Contest

What Happened

Yesterday I fell victim to Evin and Ken's Party Punch.  It was awesome.  We planned for the occasion, didn't drive and blissfully ate wings and pizza for an early supper afterwards.  Although our Sunday was a day full of sun and fun, I've actually been quite productive today--working with Amanda to promote and get ready for our two weekend events, Collector's Night on Saturday and the Open Studio on Sunday.  I've just finished my power-walk around the Historic Houston Heights and...y'all, it's like a million degrees outside.  I'm sure I lost five pounds from the sweat alone.  This would, of course, be offset by the punch, pizza and wings I ate yesterday which most definitely added on at least ten pounds.

The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business (Trademark Pending) has been going a mile-a-minute since daybreak.  He prepped for an mid-morning meeting with Mr. Vallone and then afterwards came back to the art studio to put the finishing touches on two commissions going into a hospital setting.  One of the things that amazes me about his creativity and skill is that he customizes all his colors.  None of them are "out of the bottle"  so to speak.  So, when the design firm asks for a commission that is in the style and color tone of a prior work of John's--he's put to the task of re-creating that unique color he created on the former piece.  I just visited him upstairs and he totally nailed it.  For a non-artist like myself--I find this completely unbelievable.  I wouldn't even know where to start!  But, that's why I stick to the computer and he sticks to the wood and canvas.  I'll see y'all tomorrow!

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, August 28, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!  It's Collector's Weekend--you don't want to miss this one!

Remember to e-mail me at Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com and phrase your "Answer" in the form of a "Question"...

                                                  
                                                                     Monday Contest

Let the Games Begin

I've always loved games.  Cards.  Pictionary.  The Famous Person Game.  I also adore Game Shows.  Family Feud.  The Price is Right.  And of course, Jeopardy.  For the second year in a row, we will be featuring a very spirited game of John Ross Palmer Jeopardy at our 4th Annual Collector's Night here at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio on Saturday, August 27, 2011.  Because this event is by invitation only to our Collector List, I wanted to have some fun with you this week on the John Palmer Art Blog.  And, I'm going to make it a little "high tech" by using my latest fascination, QR Codes.

Here's how the game will work: Using your smart phone, scan the QR Code that appears at the bottom of this screen.  (If you don't have a QR Code Scanner on your smart phone, go to your App Store and download one.  There are many options and most are FREE.)  After a proper scan, you should receive an immediate text message that contains today's "Answer."  Then, send me the correct "Question" in the Subject Line of an e-mail to Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com.  Seriously, it must be in the form of a question to be correct.  The first person that does this successfully will win an amazing prize each day!  We'll play this game for all of the days leading up to our big game night on Saturday.  Family members and employees of John Palmer Art are not eligible to win prizes.  You are only eligible to win a prize on one day of the week.  Good luck!

We'll start off with an easy one on this first day...

                                                   
                                                                      Sunday Contest

Long One

It was an absolutely glorious Kick-off Event for Outreach United tonight at the gallery.  So glorious, that, I now must finish my glass of wine, eat and hit the hay.  See y'all tomorrow!

Wall

Well, after many, many months (...years...) of talk and preparation for the new addition to the Collector's Wall in our Great Room, we're now only weeks away from its implementation.  J.P. and I went to the monument shop today to check out the marble and the placement of names.  It was crazy exciting and so rewarding to finally see this amazing project near its finalization.  If all goes well, we plan to host a cocktail event in September to celebrate the latest honorees on the John Palmer Art "Wall of Fame."

Otherwise, I must admit, I was kind of useless today.  J.P. worked tirelessly in the art studio after we had a beer-and-wings lunch at the Porch Swing Pub, but I really just goofed off on my computer, watched a few episodes of Law & Order and then had a nice, long nap.  I'm now off to have a few with my friend Monica before J.P. and I dine on one of our favorites tonight, fajitas.  Have a great weekend!

                                            
                                                                       New Collector's Wall!

QR Code

A Little Help is Always Appreciated

If you have enjoyed visiting the chic John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio in the Historic Houston Heights, or, if you have been inspired by John Ross Palmer's Art Movement of Escapism, dedicated to forever destroying the stereotype of the struggling artist, or, if you are a collector of John Ross Palmer original artwork and it makes your home or office come to life, or, if you love the inspiring and funny stories told about the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business on Facebook and the John Palmer Art Blog, or, if you are an artist that has gained confidence by watching Palmer's tireless efforts related to evolving his craft, promoting his endeavors and the mentoring of other artists, please do me a small favor by taking five to ten minutes out of your day to do one or more of the following:

1.  Leave John Palmer Art a Positive Review on Google.  Just click on that link.  It's simple...you just need a G-mail account.

2.  Leave John Palmer Art a Positive Review on Yelp.  Just click on that link.  It's also a simple sign-up and writing process.

3.  Like the John Ross Palmer Page on Facebook.  Sign into your Facebook Account, click on that link and just press the Like Button up top.

4.  Follow John Palmer Art on Twitter.  Sign into your Twitter Account, click on that link and just press the Follow Button.

5.  Consider sending the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business a "fan" letter.  All are personally responded to with an awesome letter in return.  Just click here to read all about it.

                                    
                                                                                   Love You Guys!!

Selection

This morning I had an outstanding meeting with the 2011 Escapist Artists: Nubia Gala-Seibert, Raul Gonzalez and Zak Vasquez.  After a totally fun, productive and amazing Photo Shoot in the Art Studio with J.P., I sat down with them to go over the planning, preparation and logistics related to our major event in October in which they will be the Featured Artists.  One of the highlights of the meeting was when the talented group of artists got to individually select their spaces in the bungalow where they will hang their original art pieces.  Just like last year, I divided the bungalow as equally as possible and then assigned them letters A, B and C.  Next, there was a drawing at random.  If you attended the Afternoon of Escapism in October of 2010--you might remember where Edgar, Kelley and Ryan had their spaces.  This year, Nubia will have Ryan's space, Zak will have Edgar's space and Raul will have Kelley's space.  And, just like last year, I am so tremendously excited to see this project and event evolve and come to fruition.  Even though our time and focus right now at the art gallery is on a number of important and impending August events, I know for a fact that October will be here before we know it.  Now that the 2011 Escapists have been provided with firm deadlines on when they must turn over their Catalogue pieces, submit their Artist Statements and Bios, have their pieces hanging in the art gallery and times by which they should mail out the Save-the-Date notices and Formal Invitations to their biggest and best art collectors, I'm much more at peace knowing things will fall into place smoothly.  I'm pleased from a business perspective that we already have our ducks in a row with the Artist Sales Agreements being executed and W-9 Forms on file.  In the distant past we've been tragic in these details that actually do matter significantly for legal and accounting purposes.  But, no longer!  Anyway, I'll have a relaxing evening tonight as J.P. goes out to dine with his Godson Nick and our friend Artist Chris Silkwood.  Have a fabulous night everyone!

                                           
                                                                                      The Selection Process

Pushing Papers

Even though I had to leave the art gallery at around 9:30 a.m. to attend a meeting with J.P. and our insurance agents across town, I still managed to get a hell-uva lot of work completed prior to leaving: Plenty of E-mails, A Monster To-Do List for Amanda and sorting through plenty of mail that I didn't get to yesterday evening.  The meeting with State Farm was excellent and comprehensive would be a tremendous understatement.  I grabbed some Mission Burrito before reuniting with John as the gallery and seeing his new collection of pottery pieces.  Way cool.  Very vibrant in his favorite color-of-choice these days, orange.  For the remainder of the week, John and I will buckle down and move through a number of projects, namely: Preparing for Our 4th Annual Collector's Night on 8/27, Hosting Two Fundraisers and doing a major push for Participants for the Faces Portrait and Book Project.  As you know, the Deadline to sign up for this amazing and historic project is August 31, 2011!  Needless to say, the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business (and his husband) will be earning their keep over the next two weeks.  It's been a long one back at the grind and so I'm going to sign off for the day!  Have a great week guys!

                                 
                                                               Original John Ross Palmer Pottery

Steak Dinner

Thanks to Grill-Master Nico Sprotti we enjoyed a delicious steak dinner last night at the Miller home in Mt. Pleasant!  John and I had a super-long-slumber after a fun and relaxing beach week.  Yes, I'm so ready to get home to Houston to see Jane and the kitties, but, I'm imagining it will be a bit tough to be back at my desk rather that in a comfortable chair on the beautiful Carolina Coast.  After a fun brunch with friends, John and I will make our way to the Charleston International Airport.  I imagine we'll have a beer or two at the airport before hopefully a smooth and quick return to the Space City.  It's time for the Hardest Working Man in the Art Business to get back to work!

                                                   
                                                                                                    John and Jez

Miller Sprotti

Last Full Day

For many years, J.P. and I would only be able to attend "the beach week"  for half of a week.  My law firm only permitted me with two weeks of vacation, so, in addition to the time I needed for the regular holidays and seeing family back home, I could never do the full week here at Ocean Isle Beach.  Now, one of the luxuries of running your own business is that you can take the vacation you want so long as business permits.  It's been so great being here all week and it's now a touch sad to think that this is our last full day.  However, we will spend one more night in Charleston with great friends and so it won't be immediately back-to-Houston for us.  We've had a complete blast.  The weather has been a dream and my schedule (1. Drink Beer on Beach 2. Eat Lunch. 3. Nap 4. Drink Beer on Beach 5. Dinner 6. Game) has been fabulously relaxing.

Of course, I have managed to do some "business"  while on our trip.  Mainly, I have secured the judge for the FCC Essay Contest.  Of course, I cannot reveal this person's identity so as not to subject them to potential influence and bribes from 2011 FCC Members, but, I can certainly assure you that it's big time.  John is crazy-excited.  Over the course of the next several months, I may tease you with clues as to whom this notable individual is, but, rest assured I won't be able to tell you their identity until at least November after the judging of the contest.

I hope that everyone has had an excellent week and again I'm sorry about the irregularity of the John Palmer Art Blog.  But, as always, I'll be back in full force by Monday for sure!

Happy Birthday Sarah!!

Evening Dance Contest

Uncle Ryan didn't participate as it would have been unfair since he is a semi-professional dancer.

                            
                                                              Jane Ann, Hil & Ann Marshall 

Hil

Loving the beach with Mr. Hil Lindsay, our nephew and John's Godson!

                                   
                                             Hil Lindsay, A Visionary Artist of the Next Generation

OIB

I apologize for there being no John Palmer Art Blog post yesterday.  I truly pride myself on being able to say it's "daily-updated."  But, it's for good reason.  Yesterday John and I made our annual trip from Houston, Texas to Ocean Isle Beach, NC to spend a week of vacation with my family.  The flight was smooth and easy.  Baggage arrived quick and I got a free upgrade on our car rental.  You all should have seen J.P. and ne speeding up the Carolina Coast in a shiny, new, white Ford Mustang.  It has black racing stripes.  I'm not teasing and I'll definitely be sharing some funny pictures of us in this ride.  Upon arrival, vodka tonics were poured, a quick clothes change insued and then we relaxed on the beach before a delicious shrimp creole dinner at the house.  We played a spirited Movie Trivia game before my brother and I shut the house and the party down.  For our nephew and niece, Hil and Ann Marshall, they are sooo excited to see Uncle John.  They adore him because he, more than anyone, adores playing games, doing art projects and digging in the sand with them.  It makes me so happy that he loves spending time with my family as much as I do.  My family is quite interesting.  Everybody loves everybody, but, there is generally a lot of yelling, competition and they will "call you out" if you are being too drunk, stupid or generally for anything to which they disagree.  Actually, it's absolutely hilarious.  And, with that, I need to put on my swim costume and make it down to the beach.  Y'all have a great week!

                                            
                                                            The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business, Relaxing
                                                                    (But, please notice the art project in his lap...)

Missing Photos

If you go through the John Palmer Art Blog and its Archives, please don't freak out if you notice that a number of images have been removed.  This is a result of a present legal action that I can't discuss publicly.  Anyway...tonight is the big night.  Folks from all around Houston come to party-down in our Historic Heights community.  J.P. has been having a grand 'ole time decorating the house and in particular the food and champagne station in the bungalow.  Please see below.  And, please note, I took this picture.  Last year White Linen Night in the Heights was so busy that this year we've decided to "up" our number of servers and security guards too.  It just makes us feel comfortable on a night such as this when, let's just say, the crowd can be a touch more rowdy than our normal Houston Art Gallery events.  So, in terms of our attire, or should I say costumes, I had to go to Plan B because my Plan A was unavailable at the stores I surveyed.  I'll save the surprise for those of you that attend this evening.  It'll definitely be cute, but, for sure my second choice.  My top choice was: White Sailor Cap, White Handkerchief tied in a really fabulous way around our neck, Shirtless, Short White Shorts and either white shoes or flip flops.  I know...super gay and adorable, right?  But, the two stores from which I tried to buy a Sailor Cap had ones that would only fit on the head of like a ten-year-old boy.  And, if it wasn't fitting on me--it certainly wouldn't work on The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business.  Now that head is big.  Literally...not egotistically.  Anyway, there will still be plenty of humor in our garb tonight so I'm happy and I can't wait to see both new and friendly faces at the art gallery tonight!  P.S. Why I don't own a Sailor Suit already is totally beyond me and needs to be fixed a.s.a.p.

This is a friendly reminder to please join us at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio TONIGHT, Saturday Night, August 6, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for White Linen Night in the Heights here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                               
                                                                  White Linen Night in the Heights is Tonight!

Friday

Long. Productive.  Fun. Day.  Now, need to eat and sleep well before a huge day tomorrow!  I'll see you guys tomorrow on the John Palmer Art Blog!

This is a friendly reminder to please join us at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio TOMORROW, Saturday Night, August 6, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for White Linen Night in the Heights here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

RSVPs

Since our mailer went out a few days ago for our 4th Annual Collector's Night, the RSVPs are starting to roll in.  I love it.  Even if the reply card says that they "unfortunately can't make this soiree," I still just adore the excitement of opening lots of mail.  I love mail.  I know I've talked about this numerous times on the John Palmer Art Blog, but, it's just that today was a particularly good "mail day."  We got a few checks, a nice handful of Reply Cards and only one small bill.  Very nice.  You know who we are not receiving mail from these days, the Internal Revenue Service.  During my first year of work with John Palmer Art, we got notices constantly.  No matter what else was in the mail on those days, it was immediately a bad "mail day."  You see, the business was booming in 2008.  It all went to hell in 2009.  But of course, we still owed the taxes for 2008 in 2009.  It's actually quite a simple concept to understand, but, nevertheless the business was unprepared.  So, it wasn't a lot of drama, but, we had to get on a little payment plan with Uncle Sam.  Just like John Palmer Art, Uncle Sam will gladly take a payment plan.  Suzie or Amanda might remember better than me, but, I think it was all paid in six or seven months of payments.  Still, when you are indebted to the United States Government, they like to send you lots of mail.  For a person like me that is totally obsessed with checking the mail, it became my little daily nightmare.  But, thank goodness, those days are long gone.  We now have a very defined process where we submit all relevant financial statements to our CPA at the end of each month.  Just recently, she sent me financials through the end of June and we promptly submitted an estimated tax payment to the IRS.  I understand this is not a novel idea and that wise business people always engage in this practice regularly, it's just rewarding and meaningful that we're now totally back on our game and adhering to these practices in a responsible manner.  J.P. and I had an upbeat therapy session before he went to the grocery store to buy goodies for White Linen Night in the Heights.  One guess as to what color these treats are...Anyway, I'm off to Montrose for a drink and to pick up dinner from Barnaby's.  J.P. Special and a Chinese Chicken Salad.  Seriously can't wait!

This is a friendly reminder to please join us at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio this Saturday Night, August 6, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for White Linen Night in the Heights here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

Taco Bell and Tonys

I'm sorry, but, it's hot as hell in Houston.  I hate the cold much more so I'm not really complaining...but y'all, seriously.  I went for my walk around the Historic Houston Heights this morning and I think I unloaded at least a gallon of sweat.  It was amazing.  But then, after a great meeting with 2011 Escapist Artist Nubia Gala-Seibert and then following up with projects at my desk, it got to be 2:00 p.m. and I hadn't had a bite to eat all day.  I hate it when I let this happen to myself because then I have a headache, and, normally I wind up going to Taco Bell as it is quick, inexpensive and delicious.  Plus, remember I had already worked out--so, I justified this cuisine in the course of one second.  J.P. and I talked earlier and had planned on a date night this evening, something totally casual.  But, around noon he texted me from upstairs and asked if we could dress up and go to Tony's to celebrate this week-in-progress' hard work.  Basically, he didn't have to twist my arm on that one.  So, today's diet will go from the cheapest and probably unhealthiest meal (the three tacos combo with a side of nacho cheese so I can dip the taco in the cheese...) to one of the finest and freshest in America.  Today J.P. met with our builder on a potential construction project before going to Staples with a few friends and art collectors.  I totally warned them that he is sort of "famous" there so definitely expect a lot of fanfare.  They are working on a cool party invitation together so I'm sure a fun time will be had by all.  Oh, have I told y'all about this wacky car problem we've been having?  On J.P.'s White Van the windshield wipers refuse to turn off except when the engine is off.  Have you ever heard of such a thing?  You know J.P. gets kind of manic about strange noises and distractions so this one has really thrown him for a loop.  The local automotive shop was unable to help with the issue and so now I think he has plans to take it to the dealer.  Crazy...I know.  There's always something going on with us.  I love it.

This is a friendly reminder to please join us at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio this Saturday Night, August 6, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for White Linen Night in the Heights here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

News

Ideally, on the first day of each month, I update the Current News portion of our website by deleting the activities of the first month described on that page and then adding on the upcoming events for the month ahead.  I'm pretty good about making it happen literally on that first day, but, sometimes it gets pushed to the third or fourth if we are traveling or I'm otherwise consumed with projects.  We usually take our vacation in August because of the heat like I mentioned yesterday...but also because it's generally known as a slow business month in Houston.  Well, the stars have aligned somehow and now it looks like we're going to be nuts busy--incredibly welcomed by both J.P. and me.  In advance of our heated Fall schedule, I want to brainstorm with J.P. on how to make our December more successful this year.  It might surprise you that it is quite a slow month for sales with John Palmer Art.  Yes, we host a fun-filled Holiday Cheer event, but, it's our experience that most folks aren't thinking about a major art purchase around the holidays.  I'm totally not sure why, I mean, what else would be the perfect gift I ask you?!  Anyway, for the past two years we've applied to Art Miami, which is the first week of December, to try and combat a slower time by attending and exhibiting at a world class art fair during the Art Basel Week.  Well, for the second year in a row we have not been accepted.  I just found out a few weeks ago.  Y'all, it's fine.  It's crazy competitive to get in and we are a young art gallery in the grand scheme of things.  But, I thanked the Fair Director for his consideration and told him to keep looking out for us!  What I thought was cool was that he actually responded and thanked me for my positive attitude.  I have a handful of projects that need my attention today, but, nothing like the daunting tasks facing The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business.  Phone calls!  It's fun in a way and he does love reconnecting with his friends and cherished collectors, but, plain and simple, it's work and very time consuming.  You just know that he'd rather be creating.  But, without the phone calls and potential new business, there's less to create.  So, today's John Palmer Art Employee of the Week, I can tell you in advance, is Mr. John Ross Palmer.  Thanks for making those calls, Babe.

This is a friendly reminder to please join us at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio this Saturday Night, August 6, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for White Linen Night in the Heights here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

Bad Stamp

We're putting out a Mass Mailer today for our 4th Annual John Ross Palmer Collector's Night.  It will be the second year in a row that three of J.P.'s top art collectors will compete in a fun game of John Ross Palmer Jeopardy.  The invitations are super cool--the main image being Ryan Lindsay, a.k.a. Alex Trebek, standing in front of a packed art gallery during last year's highly-contested game.  Amanda and Suzie have helped out tremendously with the mailer, and it will be completed by day's end.  As per usual with the resident artist, he created a fabulous new "stamp"  (as in ink...not postage) that says John Ross Palmer Jeopardy on it for us to stamp the outside of the invitation envelopes.  Well, it's just not working that well.  I mean, most of the time it comes out "opardy"  or "pardy" and just occasionally the full "Jeopardy."  Amanda and I have had to throw our hands up in defeat with the realization that it's just not going to be perfect no matter what type of pressure we put behind the stamp.  It does feel good, however, when one turns out just right.  The Hardest Working Man in the Art Business has a full one today.  After finishing a handful of tasks this morning at the art gallery, he has a meeting at the Montrose Counseling Center to learn about their mission and goal for helping homeless GLBT youth.  The purpose of the meeting is for John to gain knowledge and inspiration for a piece of art that he will be creating and donating to our 2011 Charity of the Year, Outreach United.   Following this meeting he has a fun lunch with a client and friend at Ciao Bello before installing a Dublin 2011 series piece for one of our 2011 F.C.C. Members.  To my knowledge, that's it for him.  Well, upon his return I'll be presenting him with the "Ultimate Faces Call List."  We've gone through our Collector database and identified folks for whom we think might just might be interested in a amazing commission piece for the Faces Portrait and Book Project.  There is a Deadline of August 31, 2011 to sign up!  Y'all, I seriously cannot believe that it's August.  But, I'm excited and bracing for a busy month...combined with a little vacay to escape this Texas heat.  Everyone have a great week!

This is a friendly reminder to please join us at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio this Saturday Night, August 6, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for White Linen Night in the Heights here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

                                
                                                                       Lost in Jeopardy

Open Studio

We had an absolutely marvelous Open Studio and I would like to sincerely thank all of the fun, friendly and art-loving guests that joined us at the John Palmer Art Gallery & Studio this afternoon!  Amazing collectors walked away with original art, original pottery pieces, some high-quality limited edition prints and not to mention a smiling face after a fabulous time with new friends.  I had the incredibly thank-less but highly important job of greeting people outside of our Great Room in this psycho-hot Texas heat.  I can't really complain.  I love the job and I take pleasure in drinking plenty of champagne during its execution.  John stays inside, mingles with the guests and does his best to "eyeball" those visitors that might have an inclination to acquire one of his masterpieces.  John and I operate on a business model at these events that is, of course, professional, VIP and at the same time adherent to our task-at-hand, placing art with new or existing art collectors.  It's fun.  We talk and remind each other not to sip too much champagne while the guests are admiring his newly-unveiled, vibrant pieces.  We are inclined (and need...) to ask them, "So, I see you are enjoying this Escapism piece...does it inspire you?"  I'm still learning from J.P.  He is the master.  It's his body of work and life story that shows through on the canvas, so, I'm always inspired at how he can also speak about the art with so much confidence, charm and conviction. 

Guys, after a long day, I'm resolved to have a little red wine as we chomp on delivery pizza and toast a successful day.  See you tomorrow!!

CSPAN

As a young child, whenever I went to visit my mom's parents in Charlotte, NC, we would arrive and my grandparents would be watching CSPAN.  I think, at the time, it was a relatively "new" Cable television channel that chronicled the goings-on in the United States House of Representatives and Senate.  To us less than 50, it was about as entertaining as watching paint dry on the wall.  To Nana and Granddaddy (watching at a never-been-seen-before level of high volume), this was like as dramatic as watching Beverly Hills 90210 new episode.  They were pleasantly obsessed.  Both of them would either roll their eyes or speak with conviction about this Member or that Member of the House or the Senate, because, they were so well-informed about this or that House or Senate Members' speech capabilities and/or voting record.  Or, when Democrats were speaking, sometimes my Granddaddy would turn down the volume on his hearing aids or just take a nap on the floor.  It was a family joke amongst the non-informed.  But, now, at my ripe old age of 33, I've been sucked in!  I watched the House debate today for four hours (with a little red wine...) and was completely consumed with the Debt Crisis "debate " on CSPAN.  Y'all, I have to put the word "debate"  in quotes because it's just so stupid.  It's not a real debate in my opinion and it's just a lot of posturing and rhetoric.  God save them all.  Anyway, John and I have just had a marvelolus day, whether obsessed with politics or hanging out with friends, before we (slash...he!) grills a steak and afterwards we'll try for a magnificent slumber.  I am consumed with our Representatives in Washington, DC.  Come on guys, let's all take one for the team.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio TOMORROW, Sunday, July 31, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

Friday

Long one guys.  Morning meeting, lots of rain, lunch with a great friend, pushing work off of my desk before an event here at the gallery this evening.  I'll be back to the John Palmer Art Blog tomorrow!

Family Law Luncheon

I had the absolute most amazing lunch date with my old law firm friends today.  I haven't laughed that hard in a very long time.  You know, I think I've said it on the John Palmer Art Blog before, but, if you are a divorce lawyer, you either 1. Must have a good sense of humor or 2.  You'll kill yourself.  Because of confidentiality reasons, I can't ever tell any of those stories, but, here's are just a few of the words that were shared today at lunch just to give you a small glimpse.  Biting.  Jail.  Jihad.  Peeing.  "Buried in the backyard."  Stripper.  You get the picture...there's never a dull day in their lives.  It's kind of like living in the world of John Palmer Art.  Now, words used more around here are: Champagne.  Beauty.  Freedom.  Travel.  Scotch.  So, I'd say (a little...) more healthy but still never dull.  John and I are just not the type of guys that could be in this world without pursuing a career of meaning.  Both with the law firm and the art business, I felt and feel like I'm making a real difference in people's lives.  That, for me, is very rewarding.  I certainly did get paid a lot more at the law firm, but, I'll save that whining for another day.

Currently John is in a meeting with 2011 Escapist Artist Nubia Gala-Seibert.  She has an upcoming museum showing that he's very thrilled to be giving her pointers on for layout and design.  I'm also very excited to meet with her on marketing, media and promotion ideas.  I'll certainly let you know more of the details once I know them.  An Escapist artist with an upcoming museum showing.  I just had to say it again for effect I liked it so much the first time!  John's main project, besides art commissions, has been getting the Faces display in our Great Room for the last month of major promotion before the August 31, 2011 Deadline to sign-up.  If you are reading this and have been considering a Palmer Portrait for the Faces Portrait and Book Project, please contact us soon.  John would love and adore honoring your loved one, spouse, child, family or ancestor through a commissioned masterpiece.  713-861-6726.   Ryan@JohnPalmerArt.com.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, July 31, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!

Stock Certificates

Does anyone actually have stock certificates or are they just a thing of the past?  I remember having quite a spirited debate with one of my law colleagues many eons ago on this subject.  The case dealt with jurisdictional issues (my favorite...) and whether the Texas court would possibly have jurisdiction to divide the stock if its presence was or was not in Texas.  As with most legal issues, it eventually became a moot point because of other decisions in the case, but, I still have that question pop up every now and then.  For instance, J.P. and I own shares of stock in a handful of companies.  They've all been purchased through our joint T.D. Ameritrade account. I can pull up our account and see that we own X number of shares of XYZ company, but, it's all really just numbers on a screen.  I can request statements from T.D. Ameritrade, but, those are still just paper statements and not actually stock certificates proving actual ownership of anything.  Is it crazy to even have these thoughts or is this just a symptom of that weird way of thinking that is implanted in your brain after attending law school?  It just doesn't go away!  Anyway, I've been having to review documents related to our corporation.  Because of the length and strength of our relationship and the mutual years of hard work we've put forth towards our business, we plan to execute documents which give me an equal share in the company.  I am not enjoying the document review, but, I am very pleased that John would do something like this to honor me and our relationship--both business and personal.  So, when I'm reviewing these documents and it talks over and over again about "shares" and "stock certificates"  and "encumbrances" (my favorite...) and "pledging stock", I'm like where are all of these things?  I mean physically, where?  Or is it all just paper, virtual and/or conceptual?  Sometimes I do pat myself on the back for having some brains, but believe me, a lot of times I feel like a complete fool.  On Friday, we have a meeting set up with our insurance guys for a comprehensive review of our policies: life, health, auto, homeowners etc.  I always have to ask the most ridiculous questions and so I'm sure this Friday will be no exception.  But, I guess it's better to ask the questions and get yourself (somewhat) informed rather than stay in the dark.  You know what, these days, it might just cause less anxiety to stay in the dark.  Yes, that last statement was a quip related to this assinine debate and debacle about the debt ceiling that I just pray to God I wouldn't have to hear one more word about.

This is a friendly reminder for the John Ross Palmer Open Studio this Sunday, July 31, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. here at 1218 Heights Boulevard!